Fishlock rescues Wales with equaliser against Denmarkon April 13, 2021 at 8:22 pm

Wales hold Denmark to a 1-1 draw in a performance that gives new boss Gemma Grainger much encouragement ahead of World Cup qualifying.

Wales equalised when Jess Fishlock volleyed home on the hour to cap a fine team move at the Cardiff City Stadium.

Neither side could find a winner in a friendly that was competitive and entertaining throughout.

Grainger, presiding over only her second Wales game, made one change to the side beaten 3-0 by Canada in her first match in charge on Friday night, with Tottenham’s Josie Green replacing Reading’s Lily Woodham.

The change was a significant one as it meant a tactical switch with captain Sophie Ingle deployed in her favoured position of central midfield, a move that also allowed Fishlock to play higher up the field in a number 10 role.

There is no question that Wales are looking to play in a more expansive style under their new boss and good early Wales pressure almost led to a goal, but Gemma Evans’ header was tipped over the bar by Denmark goalkeeper Lene Christensen.

The visitors are ranked 14th in the world and it was no surprise to see them begin to impose themselves after a fast start for Wales – 17 places below Denmark in the Fifa standings.

Sara Thrige shot over and Stine Larsen was then wide with another decent chance, while Emma Snerle’s shot was saved by home goalkeeper Laura O’Sullivan.

A breakthrough appeared inevitable and after skipper Harder missed with a header from close range, she made no mistake five minutes later when she raced clear and rounded O’Sullivan to give Denmark the lead from a swift counter-attack.

Wales, however, responded encouragingly to going behind and produced three good opportunities to equalise before the interval.

Fishlock tested Christensen after a fine move, before Ceri Holland flashed a shot just wide after Rachel Rowe’s pinpoint cross.

Wales’ best move of the half came on 42 minutes when Angharad James, Natasha Harding and Fishlock exchanged passes and James shot at goal, but Christensen turned the ball round the post.

The hosts were clearly growing in confidence and Evans’ shot from a corner was saved by Christensen, before James’ long-range effort was tipped over the bar.

Only a goal was missing from an excellent Wales display and it arrived on the hour mark, when James and Harding again combined and this time there was a finish to match a fine move as Harding’s cross was volleyed home by Fishlock.

Wales’ preparations are now geared towards World Cup qualifying later this year, with the draw set to take place on 30 April, but they will take heart from looking so impressive against a top team in a display that was more expansive than in previous campaigns.

Denmark finished the contest strongly as they pushed for a winner, but Wales deservedly held firm.

Wales manager Gemma Grainger:

“We wanted to build from the performance on Friday [against Canada] and we have definitely done that.

“The girls have taken things on board really well.

“We scored a fantastic team goal and the celebration showed how much it means to the team.

“I was pleased we came from 1-0 down, we showed resilience.”

Full Time