Scotland women lose through late goal to China

Scotland Women lost a very close contest with China 3-2 in the first of two test matches in Amstelveen. They meet again tomorrow to round off back-to-back series’ that has seen the Scots go toe-to-toe with two top ranked teams in the World.

The game was fast and competitive from the start and Scotland did a good job of shutting down the China threat, and forcing them to play a way they didn’t want to. Both sides created opportunities to take the lead, and a penalty corner routine almost saw the Scots take an early advantage.

The second quarter brought some tactical changes from China, and it paid off. A goal from open play, and a goal from a penalty corner, saw China take a 2-0 lead into half time.

The third quarter saw Scotland come out fast, and they quickly pulled a goal back through a Heather McEwan penalty corner to make it 2-1.

Then a superb team move down the left was rounded off by Katie Swanson at the far post to deservedly equalise for Scotland. 2-2.

Scotland went for the victory in the final quarter, and some good goalkeeping kept them at bay. With four minutes to play, a lapse allowed China to score and go into a 3-2 lead.

The Scots battled hard for another equaliser, but it wasn’t to be, and China held on to claim victory.

Head Coach Chris Duncan said, “I’m proud of the performance. We’ve grown a lot over the last three games, and the players have shown great commitment and ability to compete with excellent higher ranked teams this week. The lesson for us is that it only takes one tiny error to lose a goal at this level, and we have some fine details to nail down.

“We’re creating chances, which is very pleasing, and to come back from two behind today shows what we’re capable of. Also, I’d like to give a special mention to Jess Buchanan who has been tremendous, and has really come of age in her performances this week.

“I’m looking forward to the final game against China tomorrow, and we’ll aim to back up what we’ve done today with another good performance tomorrow.”

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