Corsie the hero with late winner for Scotland

SKIPPER Rachel Corsie’s dramatic late winner at Hampden saw Scotland climb to the top of their World Cup qualifying group. But this was an uncomfortable night for Pedro Martinez Losa’s side, who struggled to break down a stubborn Hungary side after Christy Grimshaw’s opener was cancelled out by Fanny Vago early in the second half. As the minutes ticked down, the Scots grew frustrated, but there was joy in the national stadium as Corsie’s header gave the hosts three wins out of three. It was a disjointed game featuring sloppy mistakes which hadn’t been visible so far in Martinez Losa’s reign. But the Spaniard will be satisfied with the spirit and endeavour of his side, while the result ensures momentum is with the Scots as they bid to reach the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Early on, Scotland enjoyed a lot of possession but couldn’t find their fluency.

It took until the cusp of half-time whistle before Milan winger Grimshaw netted her second goal in five appearances for the senior side when she ghosted in at the back post to capitalise. Prior to that Scotland had largely been restricted to long range efforts, Jen Beattie trying her luck from distance before testing Hungarian goalkeeper Reka Szocs with a header. Grimshaw and Erin Cuthbert had worked to find a way through before being foiled by a resolute Hungarian defence. Scotland looked to add a second goal immediately after the restart, Grimshaw forcing Szocs into a desperate save. It was Hungary, though, who claimed the next goal, with Scotland having ignored a warning a minute earlier when Lee Alexander looked unconvincing as she punched a free-kick away. Docherty conceded possession cheaply and Hungary capitalised, deftly cutting Scotland open as Vago levelled after Dora Zeller had unselfishly put her through. The winner came, eventually, when Claire Emslie picked out Cuthbert. Her attempted chip was beaten away by Szocs but, from the resultant corner, Beattie got a head to the ball before Corsie got the second triumphant touch.