Scotland v Italy
Scotland (7) v (2) Italy
The powerful aroma of Deep Heat was a clue to how seriously these two teams were taking a game that could put them into contention for the HWC trophy. Both sides have the look of professional outfits and it was no surprise the game kicked off with a tense opening before the Scottish captain lashed home the opener. It was soon followed by a classy finish from their No.2 striker guiding the ball home into the corner first time. Italy were kept out by some fine goalkeeping and even missed a penalty, before making amends by slotting home their second spot kick.The efforts of the boys from Southern Europe seemed destined to fail though as some fine finshing put the Scots in charge early in the second half, lashing home three fine strikes to take the score to 5-1. But then a glimmer of hope for Italy as a 'Blue Card' offence saw Scotland's No.2 sin binned - soon followed by a goal to peg back the Caledonians. But there is a tenacity to this Scottish side and they were ecstatic at the final whistle after some determined Row Z defending - and two powerful late strikes - saw them romp home.
Joel Dimmock