Scotland U18 Girls lose 3-1 to Belgium in Krefeld

In the searing heat of Krefeld Scotland U18 Girls’ were edged out by two late goals as Belgium won 3-1 at the U18 EuroHockey Championships.

Scotland got off to a good start by taking the lead five minutes into the contest. A slick Scotland counter attack down the left side was finished off by Cat Nelli to give the Scots a 1-0 lead.

After the goal Scotland did a good job of containing the Belgians, but in the latter stages of the second quarter a penalty corner made it 1-1.

Belgium stepped up in the second half but Scotland made good opportunities in counter attack, but couldn’t take them to get back in front. The Scots managed the third quarter really well, and looked dangerous.

Cat Nelli was in great form for Scotland, as was Captain Connie Roxburgh, while Lexie MacMillan did a great job of carrying the ball for counter attacks.

In the final quarter the heat took its toll on the Scots, and Belgium struck twice to take the victory. A turnover when Scotland played from the back saw the Scots get caught, and Belgium score, before a penalty corner made it 3-1.

Head Coach Kelly Fillingham said, “It’s disappointing to lose since we managed them so well for three quarters of the game, we felt there was an opportunity for us. But we’ve stepped up really well and showed we can compete at this level. Our deep defence was very strong, we had really good structure, but Belgium were exceptional at times.

“The heat was 32 degrees and we really toiled towards the end, we were mentally and physically fatigued, but we managed them really well regardless.

“We had two or three opportunities where a better decision would have given us a goal, and we always maintained a threat. If we’re braver on the ball, and take more risks, we can easily get our rewards.”

 

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