Scotland U18 boys’ secure promotion and bag Euro final spot

Scotland U18 boys’ won a tremendous semi-final contest against Austria at U18 EuroHockey Championship II to book a place in the final, and secure promotion into the top level of European hockey.

The result means that both Scotland U18 Boys’ and Girls’ squads have gained promotion in two successful campaigns this summer.

It was a great start to the match by Scotland in Cardiff. Andrew McConnell gave Scotland a 1-0 lead from a straight shot at a penalty corner. It was a lovely finish to get the Scots up-and-running in the semi-final.

Early in the second quarter there was an equaliser for Austria however. Nikolas Wellan made it 1-1 from a penalty corner.

Scotland struck back after winning a penalty stroke and it was Fraser Heigh who scored from the spot to make it 2-1 to Scotland as half time approached.

Scotland U18 Boys’ emerged from half time in front and furthered their advantage in the third quarter when Struan Walker scored to make it 3-1. Walker showed lovely 3D skills in front of the goalkeeper before finishing with style to put Scotland further in front.

Austria pulled one back at the start of the fourth quarter to make for a nervy end to the match. Paul Drusany was the scorer, but it was not enough and the Scots held on for an excellent victory.

Scotland U18 Boys’ Head Coach Andrew Brogdon said, “I’m really delighted we got it done. As we have done in this tournament we started strong and played good hockey from the outset. The Austrians played like we expected they would and in the first half we were very comfortable playing our game.

“There were some nerves in the last quarter but the hard work and determination of the boys saw it through, and now we can go out in the final and play with more freedom. Tomorrow is all about the boys’ and I’m delighted they have a crack at a gold medal.

“I also want to give recognition to the staff, it’s been a big week of hard work. Steve Forrest, Graham Stuart, Lucy O’Brien, Ross Marwick and Chris Duncan have all been incredibly good, and the tactical and preparation work has been top class.”

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