Hockey: Shepherd wants Scots to give internationals a go

Gordon Shepherd has not had much opportunity to see his charges in competitive action since his appointment as head coach to the Scotland women's squad a couple of months ago, so this weekend's unofficial games against Wales and England are crucial to his build-up for the forthcoming World Cup qualifier in Santiago, Chile.

Shepherd is aware that his squad have to hit the ground running in Santiago as the Scots are up against Ireland and favourites Australia in the opening fixtures, and these results could go a long way to determining Scotland's standing in the Qualifier.

Wales, who play in their own Qualifier in Kazan (Russia) starting on 17 April, are first up today.

Scotland then face England tomorrow, and Shepherd commented: "The English are ranked much higher than us and finished third in last year's European Nations Championships, while we were relegated. So, on paper, we don't have much of a chance, but the girls will give a good account of themselves."