SCOTLAND will have to rely on results going their way on Monday if they are to have any chance of reaching the final of the Cyprus Cup two days later, writes Alan Campbell. They started the day top of Group B, but ended it a point behind both South Korea and Austria, who beat New Zealand 3-0.
Second half goals from Chelsea midfielder Ji So-yun and a penalty converted by captain Cho So Hyun 16 minutes from time gave the slick, quick passing South Koreans a win they deserved on an improved second half showing.
The Scots had good chances to score themselves when Fiona Brown and Leanne Ross were both through one on one with South Korean goalkeeper Kang Gaee between the goals, but both finished weakly.
With a schedule of four games in eight days, Anna Signeul made six changes to the side which beat New Zealand on Wednesday. Striker Jane Ross was among those rested, but came on in the second half to reach her landmark 100 caps.
Ifeoma Dieke, returned to the side after missing the opening game with a stomach upset and the central defender felt the South Koreans had played on referee Barbara Poxhofer to win the penalty which sealed the points. The decision also saw Hibs defender Kirsty Smith booked.
“I didn’t think it was a penalty,” the 36-year-old said. “They were going to ground very easily and were clever about that – and I felt the referee bought it.”
Dieke wasn’t ecstatic about the opening goal either, a crisp low 20-yard strike by Ji which nestled firmly in goalkeeper Shannon Lynn’s right hand corner of the net.
“It was a good strike, but if you look at the other side of it we gave it away and we know they can shoot from difference,” the central defender said. “We had the numbers round about to deal with it and we didn’t.
“It’s disappointing the group is now out of our hands because we felt good coming into this game. We definitely felt we could have got something out of it.”
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