Scotland have the chance to get a good start in the two-legged play-off to reach the Women's UEFA European Cup Finals in Norway next year today. Tynecastle is the place to be today to see just how well we can fare against Russia, a team which is 9 places above Scotland in the FIFA rankings. The return leg is next Thursday, 30 October and Scotland will want to head to Russia with a good result under their belt.

Ahead of the game in rain-soaked Edinburgh, Scotland have been boosted by the news that Anna Signuel has agreed to another two year contract as national coach. The women's game in Scotland has grown in strength and depth since Signuel's arrival with 11 teams playing in the league. It used to be the case that women players had to move to the USA, Italy or England to get a game. Those days have gone now with Hibs, Celtic, Hamilton Accies, Aberdeen, Dundee United and another six teams supporting the distaff Premier League. There are a further four leagues, with some clubs promoting B sides, of the women's game up here.

Having home based players can do nothing but help the national side as Singuel can see a number of her players on a regular basis. Scotland are now ranked 26th in the FIFA listings (the same as their male counterparts) and will be looking to continue moving up the standings with good results under Singuel starting today.