Netherlands 1-1 Scotland: Analysis
Not that it was a high threshold, but that was Scotland's best performance by a mile against a top-tier side in a fair old while.For a side who have had challenge after challenge thrown at them - particularly in the last 24 hours or so - there was an energy, enthusiasm and excitement about them.Melissa Andreatta asked for a fast start and she got it, until they conceded that early goal, of course. When she made a tactical change at half-time, she got a response. When she pushed on for a strong finish from the touchline, she saw it action.At full-time, smiles were ear-to-ear, hugs were full and happiness palpable. It's been a long time since such feelings were present.Andreatta promised to support young players upon her appointment and tonight it paid dividends.Kathleen McGovern, 22, showed the qualities Scotland have craved from a number nine. Kirsty Maclean, 20, provided the perfect balance in midfield to the magic of Caroline Weir and Erin Cuthbert. Mia McAulay, 18, on her first start carried the Scots up the park with her pace.There was so much to like about the performance, attitude and application of a side who stared adversity in the face.It's early days in the Andreatta reign, but if this proves to be benchmark she says it is, then better days are ahead.
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