Hockey: Grange star Watt named top player in Scotland

HITMAN Michael Watt is Scotland's hockey player of the year, his final season in hockey north of the Border, writes NIGEL DUNCAN.

The Irish international striker found the net on 17 occasions including a glory double in Grange's 4-0 victory over Edinburgh neighbours Inverleith in the Scottish Cup Final.

Ali Bell is Scotland's women's player of the year after netting 25 times as Dundee-based Grove stormed to a league and cup double.

Meanwhile, coach Calum Wood saw his Under-18 side produce an improved performance yesterday despite going down 4-2 to England in the second of two weekend international matches at Stirling.

The Scots, whipped 4-0 on Saturday, led 1-0 after eight minutes through a strike from a penalty corner from Kelburne sniper Alan Forsyth, who was an inspirational figure in the two matches.

England stepped up a gear and were 3-1 ahead by the break but Michael Cockburn (Waverley/Inveresk/Trinity) reduced the deficit to 3-2 four minutes into the second half following another penalty corner.

England were then put under severe pressure and Scotland could have levelled but the strong visitors used their squad rotation well and netted their fourth goal six minutes from time to settle the issue.

In Amsterdam, Scotland's women lost 3-2 to the Dutch Under-21 side on Saturday, with Holly Cram (Western) scoring twice, following their 5-1 defeat to the Dutch senior side. Vicky Bunce (Grove) scored the Scots' consolation.