Inverleith and Watsonians win indoor titles

Edinburgh reigns supreme in Scottish indoor hockey with Inverleith winning the men’s title and Watsonians triumphing in the women’s event.

Inverleith men edged Western after a shoot-out which was signalled after the sides were locked at 4-4 in normal time, while Watsonians beat Clydesdale Western 2-0.

Inverleith won the shootout 3-2 to earn the title and qualify Europe next season. Coach Stuart Neave said: “The team gave everything.”

The club’s under-18 side doubled-up by winning their title with Ben Turtle the toast of the squad with seven goals during the finals day.

In the qualifying pool, the Capital club beat wanderers 7-0, Grove 4-1 and drew 2-2 with Kelburne so qualified on goal difference for the final and there they beat Uddingston 3-1.

Watsonians retained the women’s senior title and return to Europe. Coach Keith Smith said: “We were nervous to start with and did well to weather the chances that Clydesdale created in the first half.

“Our defense coped well with the challenge. However, after we scored the first goal, it calmed nerves and we settled down and added much more fluidity to our game.”

It was 17-year-old Jess Garden who broke the deadlock and the victory was secured by Scottish international Emily Dark’s finish from close range.

PICTURE: Inverleith win men’s title and below the women’s winners, pictures courtesy of Scottish Hockey