Wales manager Jayne Ludlow reflects on “a game of two halves” and stalwart Sophie Ingle’s influence

by Bryn Goodall

WALES manager Jayne Ludlow described her side’s 0-0 stalemate against the Czech Republic as “a game of two halves”.

The goalless affair in Newport saw Loren Dykes receive her 100^th cap, whilst Sophie Ingle passed her the captaincy for the game.

Ludlow said she was happy with the first half which saw her side create the better of the chances, but they didn’t capitalise on them in front of a record crowd at Rodney Parade.

“We created some really good goalscoring opportunities, defended really well and limited the Czech’s chances,” she said.

However, the former Arsenal player was not so happy with the second half performance.

“We lost our way for a twenty-minute spell, still some areas we were pleased with but areas we can definitely tighten up on.

“They’ve highlighted some weaknesses for us tonight that we have to make sure we change.”

She also said the lack of goals, now running for seven games, was not something to worry her.

“I am not concerned about the lack of goals, concern doesn’t come into it. I would be concerned if we weren’t creating chances.

“I do hope it will change before August and I am sure that it will.”

Defender Sophie Ingle’s father died last month, but, the Welsh captain showed great heart and passion in playing and her manager was full of praise for her.

“Sophie was the rock she always is tonight,” added Ludlow.

“I’m very proud of how well she’s done all through the week, I know the girls have surrounded her with the support she’s needed and she’s appreciative of that.

“But the fact that she wanted to commit to this camp and perform the way she has, we’re really pleased and really proud of her.”

Wales’ next match sees them welcome New Zealand.  Ludlow and the team will be looking to move on from this game and get a positive result on home soil against a side heading to France in the summer.