Jayne Ludlow expecting tough test from Northern Ireland
Jayne Ludlow of Wales leads training at Leckwith Stadium ahead of tomorrow's international match against New Zealand. Lewis Mitchell/YCPD.
Wales manager Jayne Ludlow has made it clear that Northern Ireland’s defeat versus Norway hasn’t influenced the side’s approach to tomorrow’s match.
In their opening Euro 2021 qualifier Wales displayed what they can offer on the attack by finding the back of the net on six occasions against the Faroe Islands.
A hat-trick from Natasha Harding and goals from Emma Jones, Rhiannon Roberts as well as an own goal from Julia Naomi Mortensen gave Jayne Ludlow’s side a winning start to their campaign.
After the opener, Wales are currently joint first in group C with Norway both having a goal difference of six and three points on the board.
“I expect a tough game,” admitted Ludlow.
“They have structurally changed what they do with the new manager (Kenny Sheils) being involved, so they seem like they are going in a very different direction to what they have done in the past.
“They have good age group players that I am sure are capable of stepping into that starting team as well, so for us, we prepare for them as we prepare for every game.
“Whether those teams are ranked below or above us we’re expecting a challenge different to the Faroes.”
“I’m sure Northern Ireland will look at this just as we are.
“We are looking forward to it from the sense that is a home nations game. Those games are enjoyable for staff and for players.
“I’m sure it will be very competitive, but I hope that we come out at the end of the day with the three points.”
Wales are ranked 32ndin the FIFA world rankings, meanwhile tomorrow’s guests are 59th, despite that Ludlow isn’t taking this into consideration.
“It’s something I don’t consider, to be honest.
“I would feel no different if we were playing Norway in the sense of our preparations and everything, we need to do prior to game time.
“It doesn’t enter our thoughts.”
Wales’ first home game of the Euro 2021 qualifying campaign gets underway Tuesday 3rd September 2019 at Newport County’s Rodney Parade with Kick off at 19:05.
(Featured Image: Lewis Mitchell)
