Priestman reflects on Canada’s Arnold Clark Cup

Canada wrapped up the inaugural Arnold Clark Cup with a 1-0 loss to Spain Molineux Stadium in Wolverhampton Wednesday, finishing third in the four-team standings. 

The Canadian’s had earned positive results in the two previous matches, drawing 1-1 with England and beating Germany 1-0. 

But for Canada head coach Bev Priestman, the England-based tournament was more about the performances and learning more about her squad than it was about the results.

“I’m so glad we attended this tournament,” said Priestman after Wednesday’s match. “I think we’ve got some massive learnings.

“I think the important thing here is context. As a coach you sometimes lose sight of that. I think we’ve taken a step forward.”

Specifically, Priestman was pleased to learn more about here squad’s depth as there were some key absences, including veteran forward Christine Sinclair.

“We’ve got more combinations and more trusted players,” said Priestman. “We’ve widened the depth. I’ve tested more players. I said to the players we’d come away with European experience, we’ve don’t that.”

Disappointing first half, but brave response

Wednesday night’s match was a game of two halves – Spain dominated the first 45 minutes, while Canada took more control after the break. But it was Spain’s Alexia Putellas who scored the only goal in the 21st minute.

Priestman admitted feeling disappointed in Canada’s first half performance but was proud of the second half response.

“It’s disappointing to lose,” said Priestman. “You hate losing more than you love winning I think. But listen, incredible second half. I thought we were brave. I think this team, across this tournament, have shown moments of braveness.

“They just need to do it across the 90 minutes. But I think it’s a reality of where we’re at, of being able to physically compete across 90 minutes. Really, a lot of positives.”