Results are mixed for Scots

THE Scottish O/40 men’s hockey squad, playing in the European Masters Championships at Tilburg in Holland, opened with a 3-1 loss to the host nation with Callum Wood scoring.

They then had a 2-2 draw against Germany, Chris Bonner and Alan Wall scoring

The Scots then drew 3-3 against France. Scorers were Callum Wood (2) and Alan Wall.

The pool crossover game was with England who had a 3-2 win after the Scots were 3-0 down at half-time. The recovery included two goals by Alan Wall.

This was followed by a 5-1 win over Italy. Scorers were Wood (2), Doug Nicol, Brent Simpson and Chris Bonner.

Scotland then won 2-1 over Ireland with Bonnar and Wood scoring.

The Scottish men’s O/55 had a bronze medal finish at the same venue.

It is now the turn of the real ‘oldies’. Over 1,000 are taking part in two Grand Masters events at the National Centre in Glasgow and the Clydesdale base at Titwood. The event ends on Sunday.

Age categories range from over 60 to over 75 for men. For ladies it’s over 60.

Nations represented include Holland, Germany. Spain, Belgium, France, England, Ireland, Wales, Australia and Scotland.

With 156 games on four pitches it is a hockey feast. Entry is free. Sean Murray’s brilliant 47th minute tip-in saw Ireland record their first ever point against Germany in a ranking event when they secured a 1-1 draw in their opening Pool B game at the Rabo EuroHockey event.

He got on the end of Matthew Nelson’s backhand cross from the right to earn a share of the spoils from a lively meeting.

In the early phases, German keeper Tobias Walter was required to make some excellent saves from Alan Sothern’s sharp shooting from while Mats Grambusch hit the outside netting from an excellent team move. England cruised past the challenge of Poland 6-0

All clubs are reminded the National League is starting on September 9 for most teams.

The Midlands men’s leagues start on September 2 and 3 for Divisions One and Two.