Scotland U18 Girls were denied victory by a stubborn France defence as they battled out a 1-1 draw at the U18 EuroHockey Championship in Krefeld. The result leaves the Scots at the foot of the pool heading towards the crossover matches.
There was good pressure by the Scots from the outset as they chased down the French defence in the early stages.
The Scottish work rate saw them dominate the quarter but the French defence did a good job of keeping the Scots out in the opening quarter.
Scotland’s relentless attack continued into the second quarter with the French camped in their own circle.
A rare France counter attack won a penalty corner, and with their first effort of the match, France scored. Paola Le Nindre’s drag flick found the bottom right corner to make it 1-0.
In the second half Scotland continued to dominate possession but France was a danger on the counter attack, particularly from corners.
Scotland piled on the pressure in the final quarter and had opportunities from penalty corners, but the France defence was stubborn.
The deserved equaliser eventually came with seven minutes to play. A good run into the circle from the right was deflected home by Lexie MacMillan for 1-1.
Scotland threw the kitchen sink at the French but couldn’t find a winner and the game ended in a 1-1 draw.
