Wales lose to Italy on Hayley Ladd’s big night

Hayley Ladd’s 100th appearance for Wales ended in a 1-0 defeat away to Italy in the Nations League.

Everton midfielder Ladd become only the 10th player – male or female – to bring up a century of caps for Wales in Monza, but was unable to help the visitors recover from a poor start.

Barbara Bonansea broke the deadlock with a fifth-minute goal for Italy and it proved enough to settle an even contest.

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Wales boss Rhian Wilkinson included Ladd in her starting line-up and also handed a full debut to Manchester City teenager Mayzee Davies for the Group A4 encounter.

The Dragons made a poor start on their return to life back in the top tier with Bonansea finding the net after a succession of Italy corners.

Wilkinson’s side did respond admirably and captain Angharad James hit the woodwork, but it stayed 1-0 at the break.

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It was Wales who dictated play in the second period but while they finished with 52 per cent possession, the away team were unable to find a leveller.

There is little time for Wilkinson’s team to dwell on this result with Sweden the visitors to the Racecourse Ground on Tuesday.