Scots’ World Cup lifeline

Scotland, who face the Netherlands in their second pool match at the World League semi-finals in London today, have been given a possible lifeline, writes Craig Madden.

Derek Forsyth’s side did not expect to progress beyond this tournament to the World Cup finals next year but yesterday’s results have gven them a boost.

Pakistan have now lost both their opening games, starting with a 4-0 defeat to the Netherlands. Yesterday they succumbed 6-0 to Canada, and are bottom of the pool table.

It is a tall order for the Scots to see off the talented Dutch, who at No 4 in the world rankings are 19 places higher, but to finish above Pakistan in the pool would be a real bonus. That would allow the Scots to enter the quarter-finals and seek a possible place in the World Cup finals, which have been expanded from 12 to 16 teams.

After two recent heavy losses to the Dutch, a damage limitation exercise today could keep Scotland above Pakistan in the pool table and see their World Cup dream stay alive.