Leanne Ross in rallying call to crowd ahead of Scotland Women’s qualifier

The Glasgow City player, who earlier this month notched her 150th goal for the club in only 136 starts, says the fans helped turn a potential defeat against the Republic of Ireland two months ago into a last-gasp 2-1 victory.

“After we equalised, the crowd willed us on to get the winner,” said Ross. “Although our last two performances at home haven’t been the best, Tynecastle is a great venue.”

The Scots made life difficult for themselves by losing fourth-minute goals against both Wales and Ireland, but fought back in both games and lie second in Group 4 behind runaway leaders France. Their only defeat so far has been away to the French, and on paper today’s match should be the easiest of the campaign.

Scotland went to Israel for their opening game and came away with a 6-1 win. The Israelis are still without a point after five matches, but Scotland coach Anna Signeul said: “We need to start the game very focused, because we lost a goal in almost the first attack in the previous two home games.

“We are confident and want to keep a clean sheet, but Israel are a well-organised side who play a passing game and are technically good. We won’t be going into this match thinking it will be easy.”

France, with 18 points from six games, are certain to win the group, but Scotland, with seven from four, can qualify for the finals in Sweden next summer either as the best runner-up in the seven groups or by winning a play-off.

The key game for the Scots should be against closest rivals Ireland in Cork next Thursday night. Two wins in the next five days would almost certainly guarantee Signeul’s side at least a play-off place with an away match against Wales and a home fixture against France to follow in September.

Kick-off at Tynecastle is at 3pm with admission £5 for adults and £2 for children.