A 26th-minute Betsy Hassett goal was the difference between the two sides, after good lead up work from Ali Riley saw Sarah Gregorius’ first-up effort saved by the Scottish goalkeeper.
Football Ferns coach Tony Readings was happy with the team’s performance against a side ranked two places below his.
“We controlled possession for large portions of the game, created a few clear cut opportunities and were worthy of the win,” Readings said.
Waikato striker Helen Collins was given her international debut, with the coach happy with her effort which was nearly capped off with a trademark goal.
“She did really well,” Readings said of Collins, a player who last represented her country at the 2006 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Russia.
“She held the ball up well in attack, her passing and movement were good, and she was denied a goal on debut just before half-time when the keeper saved in a one-on-one situation. She has the physical attributes to compete at international level and that makes a big difference.”
Former international cricketer Rebecca Rolls earned a start in goal for the match, while Hayley Bowden captained the side in Rebecca Smith’s absence and Rebekah Stott started at centre-back alongside Abby Erceg.
Readings and his side will have a rest day before facing Italy, who took on England in the other Group A match today.
“Italy will pose a different threat and will be a lot more physical, but our focus will be on what we do,” Readings said.
The two sides last met in 2010 in the same tournament with the Football Ferns winning 1-0 courtesy of an Amber Hearn goal. The Italians are currently ranked 11th in the world with the Football Ferns sitting in 21st position.
New Zealand’s match against Italy kicks off at 1.30am on Saturday morning (NZT).
Story courtesy of New Zealand Football.
For more on New Zealand Football visit www.nzfootball.co.nz

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