The Scots took the game by the scruff of the neck right from the off, Ailsa Robertson brought the best out of the Russian goalkeeper following a pass from Linda Clement and minutes later a Vikki Bunce effort sailed over the bar. Midway through the half Scotland finally had their noses in front at a penalty corner, Cheryl Valentine switched the ball left to Louise Carroll whose low volley gave the goalkeeper no chance. The Russians retaliated briskly and only a great save by Abi Walker in the Scotland goal preserved the lead at the interval.
photo Scottish Hockey
The Russians were soon back on level terms with a shot from the top of the circle that went in off Walker`s left hand post. Within a couple of minutes Holly Cram broke free but her reverse stick effort was blocked by the keeper. In a moment of rashness a Russian defender gave away a needless penalty stroke and Emma Rochlin calmly made it 2-1 with a waist high flick. The result was sealed in 58 minutes at another set piece, Nikki Kidd`s drag flick flew low into the net. Minutes later Kidd had a chance to add to Scotland`s tally, but this time her shot rebounded off a post.
Joss said: "We were nervous at the start and the Russians played well, but once we made it 3-1 we never looked back. Our success over the week is testament to the training and the support team, the girls were in good physical shape for the entire tournament."
A final accolade on a very successful week, Bonagrass Grove defender Louise Carroll was voted player of the final.
