Scots secure Rome draw to win series

Scotland’s women drew 3-3 with Italy yesterday, clinching the three-match series in the final match in Rome.

In the final warm-up for the second round of the World League in Brazil in ten days time, the Scots found themselves two down at half-time.

But, just a minute after the break, Milne Craig Western striker Holly Cram pulled one back. But, as the Scots piled on the pressure for the equaliser, the Italians stole up the pitch to go 3-1 ahead at a penalty corner.

The Scots created several chances before the breakthrough came with five minutes left from Nikki Kidd. In the final minute, Linda Clement fired in an unstoppable shot to level.

Coach Gordon Shepherd said: “Delighted to win the series. With the character of the squad, with key players missing, their performance in the second half was outstanding.”

The missing players were defender Catriona Ralph, who suffered a broken jaw while blocking a shot and Morag McLellan who has an ankle injury.

Meanwhile, two GB Olympic bronze medallists, goalkeeper Beth Storry and Crista Cullen, are retiring from international hockey. Storry’s move may 
benefit Scotland’s Abi Walker, who was understudy to the English keeper in London.