Muirhead leads Scots into semis

EVE Muirhead led the Scottish women into today’s semi-final of the Le Gruyère European Curling Championships in Moscow with a 9-6 win over Russia in their play-off game, but David Murdoch’s men’s team have gone out, losing their second tie-breaker against the Czech Republic by 5-7.

Muirhead’s victory went all the way to an extra end, but she was in control for most of the game and never behind. Her rink was pulled back from a 4-1 lead to 6-6. But, playing with the hammer in the extra end, Muirhead had a relatively simple chip-out and stay to score three and win 9-6. Scotland now face Denmark in the semi-final.

Muirhead said: “Overall, that performance was really good. It was one of our games that was right up there. We know Denmark are going to be up for our game, and will fight hard, but so are we.”

The winner will face Sweden, unbeaten this week, who have taken the direct route to the final.

David Murdoch’s men finished fifth overall after their defeat against the Czechs. Murdoch said afterwards: “This really was a case of missed opportunities. But it’s a tough week and it’s the first time here for this team. I’m proud of the way they fought.”