It was a 4-1 win for home side Ireland against Scotland U21 Women in the fourth match of four to complete their test series.
Scotland started the game well, showing improvement from their previous match, and looked dangerous throughout the first half.
The strong start for Scotland was rewarded with a goal. An interception, as Ireland attempted to play out from the back, saw Scotland burst into the circle and the ball cut back for Zara Kennedy, who swept the ball home from close range to make it 1-0.
The game changed in the second half, particularly when Scotland went a player down. Two back-to-back penalty corners allowed Ireland to strike two goals, and move into a 2-1 lead.
Following Ireland’s two goals the Scots found themselves chasing the game, and in the final quarter they were punished on a counter attack. With Scotland pressing forward, an Ireland break fashioned a one-v-one ending with the home side going 3-1 up.
Then in the closing stages it went to 4-1 to Ireland through a rebound goal after a good save.
Head Coach Neil Menzies said, “The players were very tired today and Ireland were able to bring in some U23s, which made it even tougher. It was a great effort despite the number of games, and I’m pleased with the performance – the game was closer than 4-1.
“On another day it could have been a draw, but Ireland took their chances well. In general, we performed well, taking on the seniors’ system. The players did a good job adapting to this, which was very pleasing.”
