In its second match of the FIFA Women’s World Cup group stage Utah Royals FC DF Rachel Corsie and Scotland fell 2-1 to Japan on Friday morning.
Once again, Corsie captained the squad from her role as the starting centerback and played the full 90 minutes.
Japan jumped out to a lead in the 23rd minute when Mana Iwabuchi hammered one in the back of the net for the Nadeshiko.
In the 37th minute Yuika Sugasawa doubled to lead for Japan following a controversial penalty kick call. At the top of the box it appeared as if Corise’s arm was up near Sugasawa’s shoulder which led to the Japanese player being pulled down inside the penalty area. The referee awarded Japan a penalty kick for the offense, giving them the lead and eventual game winner.
In an attempt to storm back and level the match, Scotland was able to pull one back in the 88th minute when second half substitute Lana Clelland sent off a rocket of a shot from longer range to cut Japan’s lead in half.
Scotland will play its third and final match of the group stage on Wednesday, June 19 at 1:00p.m. MT against Argentina.
