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Wales’ convincing win over Russia at Newport Stadium on Tuesday was their best performance in her ten years of service says Jess Fishlock.
Fishlock and her teammates ran out 3-0 winners at a sold-out Newport Stadium, against third-placed Russia who was in need of a win, to have any hope of qualifying.
The win has guaranteed Wales at least a second-place finish in their penultimate qualifying fixture, with seventeen points out of a possible 21.
The 31-year-old has made over 100 appearances in the Reds of Wales but has listed the win over Russia as the most complete performance, that she has played in.
Kayleigh Green was on the scoresheet twice, whilst Natasha Harding also registered her name on the scoresheet. There was also a seventh clean sheet for Laura O’Sullivan and her backline, which includes captain Sophie Ingle, Loren Dykes and Rhiannon Roberts.
“I think it was by far the best performance I’ve ever been involved in when it comes to Wales,” said Fishlock.
“Today we had to put on a performance to make sure our dream was still alive and we did that.”
“It’s unbelievable. I think it’s going to take a few days for that to sink in, to be honest.”
“Everyone was brilliant so we’re top of the group right now going into the last game. We can be so pleased with ourselves for this whole campaign especially tonight.”
Newport, Wales. 12th June, 2018. Wales host Russia at Spytty Park in a FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifier. Lewis Mitchell/Alamy Live News.
Wales go into their last game against neighbours England, who they held to a goalless draw at St Mary’s Stadium back in April.
Phil Neville will bring his Lionesses to Wales in their penultimate fixture, before completing their qualifying campaign against Kazakhstan. The choice of venue is still undecided as the Football Association of Wales considers their options, but Fishlock is hopeful of a strong backing.
“It’s pretty special.”
“I think that it’s going to be a huge game and they’re going to come down here now and I hope our tiny, little amazing country gets behind us and is as loud as they were tonight just in a bigger capacity.”
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With Wales still unbeaten in the group, yet to concede and in a good position of at least a World Cup play-off spot, there has been respect earnt by the Welsh women’s national team, for their recent performances.
The game on Tuesday was being televised, England have been shown what Wales can do, as well as remembering the draw at St Mary’s, making for a showdown between the two countries in August.
Fishlock said: “I don’t think they’re going to come out without their worries about us and if they do then good luck to them.”
If they don’t treat us with respect it’ll be very naive of them. I think they will after this game. It’s going to be a huge game but it could go either way. I don’t think it’s a shoe-in for England.”
(Featured Image: Will Cheshire)
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