Auld Enemy beaten in R&A Trophy clash

SCOTLAND'S golfers beat defending champions England on the final day of the Boys' Home Internationals but it was in vain as Ireland claimed the R&A Trophy at Southerness.

Stuart Wilson's side claimed an 8.5-6.5 victory but had to settle for the runners-up spot after the Irish overcame Wales to clinch the title. The Scots got their noses in front during the morning foursomes as they edged the session 3-2. Scottish Boys' champion Grant Forrest beat James Burnett by one hole in the top singles tie while Conor O'Neil and host club player Scott Gibson pitched in with wins. England picked up four-and-a-half points from the remaining matches but further wins for Liam Johnston and Daniel Hendry, and a half point from Ewan Scott, gave the Scots victory. In the day's other match, Ireland eased to a 10.5-4.5 win over Wales.