Lisa’s World Cup dream will take time to sink in
Perth star in qualification wonderland
Perth footballer Lisa Evans admits qualification for the World Cup will not sink in until she actually plays in the tournament. Scotland Women stunningly booked a dream ticket and a first ever appearance at the global spectacle after finishing top of qualifying Group Two.
Last week’s victory in Albania – and Switzerland failing to defeat Poland – resulted in joyous celebrations both in Shkoder and back on home soil.
Evans (26), who plays her club football for Arsenal Women, is already looking forward to pulling on the national colours in France next year.
“The feeling was just absolute sheer delight,” Evans said of the scenes which followed when the full-time whistle sounded in Albania.
“The way it happened was amazing, not knowing during the game the score in the other match.
“When we realised it just after, the girls all ran on the pitch. That was amazing.
“I don’t think it’s settled in yet and it probably won’t until we’re actually there.
“The reaction has been overwhelming from everyone, like the media, friends and family – and even my English team-mates.”
Goals from Kim Little and Jane Ross secured the memorable 2-1 victory against Albania who had equalised on the stroke of half-time.
Evans knew that the neversay-die attitude that flows through the Scotland squad meant that qualification was always a possibility.
“I think there is a great belief throughout the squad,” she said. “The majority of our players play for top teams in Europe and America.
“I think having that base in club football allows us to go in with confidence and belief in everything we do.”
Booking a World Cup spot can only help to continue the rise of women’s football in both Perth and across Scotland, Evans believes.
She went on: “Obviously there is a major buzz surrounding women’s football, whether that be in
Scotland, England or else where. It’s really on the up. Hopefully this provides a lot more opportunities in Scotland.
“We had an incredible turn out at the Euro Championships and also in our last home game against Switzerland. The crowd was record breaking.
“Hopefully it continues even more now that we’ve qualified for our first ever World Cup.
“I think it will help greatly in terms of inspiring the next generation. It’s really important to have role models, especially when you are growing up.”
Evans has previously played for Turbine Potsdam and Bayern Munich in Germany. But her football journey started in Perth.
When asked what she puts her success in the game down to, Evans said: “Having the most supportive family and friends around me. They did everything they could to make me the best player possible.
“Coaching us with St Johnstone girls, driving us to training, dedicating their whole lives around our football.”