Field hockey – Moodie hails gutsy squad after shootout

Scotland coach Graham Moodie praises young lions who stepped-up during tense penalty shootout. Picture by Nigel Duncan Media

GRAHAM Moodie thinks anything is possible after Scotland claimed a semi-final slot in the World League 2 in Belfast.

They beat Austria 4-2 in a shootout following a 5-5 draw and now face France in Saturday’s semi-final.

Scotland’s Willie Marshall celebrated 150 caps for his country in the win which showed real character.

David Forrester (Edinburgh University) took over in goal for the shootout and stepped up to save two Austrian penalties.

Alan Forsyth (Surbiton), Jamie Wong (Edinburgh University), Lee Morton (Bromac Kelburne) and Gavin Byers (Grove Menzueshill) all converted to give Scotland the win.

Moodie, Scotland’s assistant head coach, said: “The players showed unbelievable fight and character in this game, they were incredible.

“We probably should have had the game won in normal time but the character of guys like Lee Morton and Jamie Wong, both just turned 21 years old, stepping up and taking responsibility in the shootout was fantastic.”

He added: “We’ll take a couple of days to prepare for France in the semi-finals now, anything is possible.”