Scotland put on a stunning performance as they defeated World Cup-bound Costa Rica 4-0 at Hampden Park on Friday night. 17-year-old Emma Watson scored her first international goals after earning only her second cap, while Claire Emslie and Caroline Weir also got on the scoresheet.
The match was a reminder of what might have been for Scotland, who are 13 places above Costa Rica in the world rankings, and a welcome hint of a brighter future. Watson got the ball rolling after five minutes, pouncing on a Weir free-kick to volley her first Scotland goal from close range.
Emslie then helped steer in a Weir corner before the roles were reversed for the third – all before the break. Watson completed the rout with a stunning strike from 18 yards out. Costa Rica showed some late fight as goalkeeper Lee Gibson saved from Catalina Estrada and Cristin Granados long-ranger struck the top of the bar, but nothing could prevent a Hampden ovation for a convincing victory and an emerging young star.
Weir, handed the captaincy in the absence of Rachel Corsie, took advantage of a couple of free-kicks deep inside their own half as they slid dangerously into challenges on the sodden turf. Emslie had been handed the captaincy for Friday’s win over Australia in London to mark the winger’s 50th cap, and any disappointment she might have felt by handing the armband to her joint vice-captain was dissipated as she stooped reach Weir’s corner at the front post just short of the half hour.
Scotland showed why they are 13 places above Costa Rica in the world rankings as the visitors head to Australia and New Zealand without a victory in seven outings. It was an iconic moment in only Watson’s second Scotland appearance as the side debuted their 150th anniversary shirt.
The match also marked a welcome hint of a brighter future for Scotland, as they look ahead to yet-to-be-arranged friendlies before the inaugural Nations League starts in September. Player of the match was Emma Watson, who made a huge impression in only her second Scotland appearance.
Scotland put in an impressive display to defeat World Cup-bound Costa Rica 4-0 at Hampden Park on Friday night. 17-year-old Emma Watson scored her first international goals after earning only her second cap, while Claire Emslie and Caroline Weir also got on the scoresheet.
The match was a reminder of what might have been for Scotland, who are 13 places above Costa Rica in the world rankings, and a welcome hint of a brighter future. Watson opened the scoring after five minutes, pouncing on a Weir free-kick to volley her first Scotland goal from close range.
Emslie then helped steer in a Weir corner before the roles were reversed for the third – all before the break. Watson completed the rout with a stunning strike from 18 yards out. Costa Rica showed some late fight as goalkeeper Lee Gibson saved from Catalina Estrada and Cristin Granados long-ranger struck the top of the bar, but nothing could prevent a Hampden ovation for a convincing victory and an emerging young star.
Weir, handed the captaincy in the absence of Rachel Corsie, took advantage of a couple of free-kicks deep inside their own half as they slid dangerously into challenges on the sodden turf. Emslie had been handed the captaincy for Friday’s win over Australia in London to mark the winger’s 50th cap, and any disappointment she might have felt by handing the armband to her joint vice-captain was dissipated as she stooped reach Weir’s corner at the front post just short of the half hour.
Scotland showed why they are 13 places above Costa Rica in the world rankings as the visitors head to Australia and New Zealand without a victory in seven outings. It was an iconic moment in only Watson’s second Scotland appearance as the side debuted their 150th anniversary shirt.
The match also marked a welcome hint of a brighter future for Scotland, as they look ahead to yet-to-be-arranged friendlies before the inaugural Nations League starts in September. Player of the match was Emma Watson, who made a huge impression in only her second Scotland appearance. Her performance was indicative of what Scotland can achieve going forward, and will give them confidence ahead of their upcoming friendlies and Nations League campaign.