Scotland’s only footie star to win a World Cup says she’ll be cheering on England’s women in their bid for glory
THE only Scottish soccer star to have won a World Cup has announced that today she will be cheering on England’s women in their quest for glory.
Rose Reilly, 68, said a Lionesses win against Spain in their last game would give women’s football a huge boost across the UK.
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And she hopes manager Sarina Wiegman’s team will lift the trophy – almost 40 years after she secured her own place in the championship Story books while playing Italy.
Rose, from Stewarton, Ayrshire, said about it big gamewhich begins at 11am in Sydney, Australia: “I’m 100 per cent pro England.
“I know there is a sporting rivalry – even hatred – between them Scotland And Englandespecially with the Men.
“But with Women There is still an ongoing struggle for recognition. That’s why we have to stick together, no matter what jersey you’re wearing.”
Rose’s incredible achievements throughout her career led to her induction into the Scottish Hall of Fame football And Sports and she has also earned an MBE.
Before moving there, she played for a local women’s club and the national team France In 1973, at the age of 18, she signed her first professional contract.
Within six months she was caught by her AC Milan In Italywhere she spent 18 years and won numerous trophies awards with 10 different teams.
And after Scotland banned her for criticizing the SFA, Rose was asked to play for her country of choice. This led to her winning a winner’s medal at the 1984 Mundialito, a precursor to women’s competition World Championship.
Rose even scored 3:1 in the final win over west Germany in Jesolo, in northern Italy, and was named player of the tournament.
She recalled, “Winning a World Cup has to be the pinnacle of every player.
“They compete with the best in the world at this time. It was amazing to achieve.
“To do that and be named the world’s best footballer wasn’t bad for a little girl from Stewarton.
“But for me, a Scottish heart always beat under an Italian shirt.
“It was not my decision to be banned from my country for life. I regret nothing.”
Rose added: “I’m so proud to see how far women’s football has come. The enthusiasm of the audience was astounding, as was the attendance and viewership.
“It’s a bit disappointing that Scotland didn’t make it to the World Cup this time but hopefully our time will come again.”
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