Kirsty Smith bids to help Scotland put freeze on Iceland

Hibs Ladies player Kirsty Smith is dreaming of representing her country in a major tournament as Scotland Women prepare for tonight's crunch Euro 2017 qualifier against Iceland at the Falkirk Stadium.
Hibs and Scotland player Kirsty SmithHibs and Scotland player Kirsty Smith
Hibs and Scotland player Kirsty Smith

The Scots sit top of Group 1 having won every game in qualifying so far. However, tonight’s opponents also have a 100 per cent record but have one game in hand over Anna’s Signeul’s squad.

Scotland face a trip to Belarus on Tuesday before completing their campaign against top seeds Iceland in Reykjavik in September.

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Smith, who made her international debut when Scotland lost out to the Netherlands in a World Cup play-off in the previous qualifying campaign, said: “Representing Scotland in a major tournament would be the greatest achievement as it’s always been an aspiration of mine. We’ve narrowly missed out before so it would mean a great deal to go and qualify for the Euros.”

The midfielder added: “Making my debut in the World Cup play-off was great. Although the result was not what the team would have liked, I learned a lot from that experience.

“I think this is a great learning curve for me to work even harder and be even better as a player for those kind of opportunities.”

With group winners and the best six of eight second-placed teams claiming a spot at the finals next summer, the Scots are all but on the plane to the Netherlands.

Smith, though, is keeping her focus on tonight’s match.

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“Although we have points in the bag, Iceland have been in the same form and will be looking to continue that and gain the three points just as we are,” said the 22-year-old.

“They will be a very physical team and we will need to match that.

“I think the form we are in will give everyone confidence and encouragement, though, to maintain the record we have so far.

“Although the Iceland game will be challenging, we must treat it like any other game, focus and play to the strengths.”