Scotland women edged South Africa 2-0 in the opening fixture of a two-match series at Peffermill, Edinburgh, as they continued their build-up for the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup.
Goals from Heather McEwan and Amy Costello made the difference in a match they controlled for much of the proceedings after making a powerful start.
The Tartan Hearts spent majority of the opening quarter in the South African half but failed to turn that possession into goals.
That changed early in the second quarter when Olympian, Costello, slipped the South African defenders following a penalty corner before feeding McEwan who slotted.
The impressive Ellie Mackenzie then drove at the heart of the South African defence but the tourists snuffed out the danger and they came more into the game in a competitive third quarter when both teams created chances but failed to find the net.
The highlight of the final quarter came when Scotland were awarded a penalty corner. Great Britain squad player, Costello, converted to give secure the home side, ranked No 14 in the world, a win over a squad ranked four places below them.
The sides pus-off again on Monday night at The University of Edinburgh Playing Fields at Peffermill (7.30) and tickets are still available.
Earlier, Scotland’s men earned their second win over Chile at Peffermill, a final quarter goal for Scotland giving them a narrow 1-0 win after a 3-0 success in the opening game of a three-match series.
The Scots had early opportunities, but none were converted and the tourists pushed Scotland back in the second but the score was deadlocked at half-time.
The scoreline stayed that way until great skill from Great Britain international, Lee Morton, earned a penalty corner and Scotland found the net through Tommy Orr with less than ten minutes left.
The home side had to survive a penalty corner in the final minute but solid defence kept Chile out and the men celebrated a 1-0 victory and the sides go again on Tuesday (7.30) also at Peffermill. Tickets are still available.
PRESSURE: South Africa attempt to block another Scotland raid. Picture Nigel Duncan
