Scots draw at Titwood

1ST TEST MATCH   SCOTLAND V SOUTH AFRICA –
TITWOOD (GLASGOW)

In the first of five test matches at Titwood, a fighting
performance by Scotland`s women produced a well earned 2-2 draw
with the much-fancied South African, six places above the Scots on
the international rankings and on their way to the London Olympics
in a few weeks time.

Gordon Shepherd, Scotland`s coach, managed this result with a
side composed of experience and several youngsters, and without his
four GB players Laura Bartlett, Emily Maguire, Abi Walker and Vikki
Bunce.

It certainly did not look good for Shepherd`s charges with just
seconds left, they trailed 2-1 but were then awarded a belated
penalty corner.  At the second attempt Nikki Kidd`s drag flick
was deflected goalwards by Catriona Ralph and first cap Nikki Lloyd
nipped in to make sure of the equaliser.

The Scots had their chances early on, Kidd hit a post at a
penalty corner, Sam Judge`s strike was disallowed for dangerous
play at another set piece, then Kidd again sent a reverse stick
shot wide of the target.

South Africa took the lead midway through the half, the initial
shot was saved by Scotland goalkeeper Amy Gibson but Dirkie
Chamberlain followed up to strike the rebound home.  
Although South Africa dominated the rest of the half, Linda Clement
had a chance in the final minutes at a goalmouth scramble after
Kareena Marshall`s cross had struck a post.

In the second half the Scots shocked the pre-match favourites
with a goal against the run of play, a move involving Kidd, Judge
and Clement finally reached Ali Bell whose miss-hit shot eluded the
stranded goalkeeper.

South Africa continued to dominate play with four penalty corner
opportunities and took a 2-1 lead with eight minutes left when
Kathleen Taylor was left with a simple tap in after a quick attack
had opened up the Scottish defence.   But the Scots never
gave up and were rewarded with Lloyd`s late counter.

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