Scotland (9) v (4) South Africa

By George Thomson

Scotland overcame South Africa 9-4 to move to the top of Group B in Section 1 in front of a sizeable Tartan Army contingent at the Melbourne pitch.

A tight and well-contested opening few minutes saw each team scope out for weaknesses in their opponents.

It was always likely a mistake would lead to the first goal and it was from a slack Scottish ball across defence that South Africa took the lead in the third minute.

Both teams then traded goals, unable to build a clear advantage. Slowly but surely however, the Scots' well-drilled one touch passing began to control the tempo of the match.

Scotland began to assert their authority during the second half, building a 5-2 lead.

South Africa made a substitution and looked immediately more threatening, firing in two goals from quick one-two passes down the middle.

Chastened by the South African comeback, the Scots began to reassert their authority. Alec Wade scored the goal of the match, puncturing the far top corner from just inside the South African half.

Two more goals added to Scotland’s comfortable lead, while at the other end keeper Stephen McMillan pulled off some sharp saves to ensure the 9-4 victory.

Photos: Photoworx