THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN
Kerr’s Scotland Women land England in World Cup draw
THE gasps around La Seine Musicale told you everything. England v Scotland in the first Group D game of the Women’s World Cup on June 9.
Argentina and the 2011 winners Japan make up a hugely challenging group, but there is no question the tone will be set by the mouth-watering opening encounter.
The two sides faced each other at the 2017 European Championships, with England running out 6-0 winners on that occasion.
However, Scotland coach Shelley Kerr insists that result should be consigned to the past as her team look to underline their improving form.
‘I know everyone will talk about the Euros but we have to focus on the group as a whole,’ said Kerr.
‘We knew it would be tough but it’s an exciting group as well. England may be our nearest rivals geographically but we must not lose focus on the rest of the group.
‘Yes the players know each other really well but we know every game will be tough.’
England manager Phil Neville said: ‘On the flight over, I had a funny feeling in my stomach that we would draw Scotland.
‘I went to watch them play USA recently and they were very good. We can draw inspiration from what the men did in Russia. Gareth Southgate has helped foster a good spirit around St George’s Park and we can feed off that.’
Scotland’s second group match sees them take on the dangerous Japan, the toughest second seeds Kerr’s team could have drawn.
The section will draw to a close with the Scots facing Argentina while England meet Japan.
Another Scot involved in the draw is veteran Tom Sermanni who, after much success with Australia and USA, now leads New Zealand, who have drawn Canada, Holland and Cameroon.
‘We will start as underdogs but the women’s game is now growing so fast in terms of skill and preparation that you never know what might happen,’ he said.
‘This will be the best ever Women’s World Cup.’