Wales manager Rhian Wilkinson has said that she and her team are “pleased” by their 2-2 draw with the Czech Republic to open their World Cup qualifying campaign.

Wales fell behind twice in Uherske Hradiste, but equalised twice, firstly through Hannah Cain’s neat finish from Lily Woodham’s low cross, and then in the 93rd minute thanks to substitute Elise Hughes.

Given that Wales and the Czech Republic are expected to battle it out for top spot, Wilkinson acknowledged that Hughes’ leveller could “absolutely” prove to be key when Group B1 concludes in June.

“That is what we talked about before the game and we prepared for – if we get a tie (draw) away, are we happy with it?” the Wales head coach said.

“It’s a big tie and we’re pleased with that.”

Wales are the highest ranked team in Group B1, at 19th, with the Czechs at 22nd. Albania, who beat Montenegro 2-1 on Tuesday night are 25th.

Wales host 31st ranked Montenegro at Parc Y Scarlets on Saturday.

“I don’t think it was our best performance but we did know that this was going to be a huge battle for us against a really top team at home, so we were going to have to show up and deliver,” Wilkinson added.

“There were moments in that game where I didn’t think we were good enough.

“But what I am proud of is that we stuck in it to the very end and that goal was going to be important for us to get the tie.”

In Wales’ first competitive since the international retirement of Jess Fishlock, Wilkinson picked a side packed with experience.

But the Canadian paid tribute to the less experienced “finishers” who played a part after coming off the bench.

“We’ve got to make sure we keep testing our depth and giving players opportunities to shine like Elise did today,” she said.

“I thought Mared [Griffiths] also came on and made a difference, Carrie Jones came in, so a lot of performances that were important for us tonight.”

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