Ireland's women played Scotland for the second time in two days and secured another 1-0 victory against the home side.
Ireland although playing well did not dominate the first half in the same way as they did yesterday and Scotland immediately created a couple of attacks putting Ireland under pressure. Keeper Healy was forced off her line twice to deal with potential goals but a strong Irish defence kept the Scots at bay.
Ireland were not without their chances in the first half, experienced forwards Cregan and McKean got a few shots on target, a penalty corner drag flick was also denied by the Scottish defence.
The first half closed out nil all.
Scotland came out for the final thirty five on the attacking foot and forced three penalty corners in a ten minute spell, including a triple save from Healy who kept a cool head and more importantly a clean sheet.
In the 58th minute Ireland got the break they needed - a free in from outside the top of the circle led to a clever dummy from McCay to find McDonagh to put away a superb shot for the first and only goal of the match. This was a great return for McDonagh who was denied what looked like a legitimate goal yesterday when a quick Irish free was forced to be retaken by the umpire.
Although the Irish were forced to work harder today for their win they will no doubt be happy to come home from this trip with two wins under their belt.
Commenting was Coach Gene Muller ÔÇ£Overall, I was very happy with the way in which we played over the two games. The goal we scored today was a very well taken goal. I thought that we played very well in the first half but in the second half Scotland came back into it, it was a big learning experience for us as we were winning the ball but not holding onto it that well something to work onÔÇØ.
ÔÇ£Preparation will begin now for the South African tour, we have worked quite hard for the last few weeks, so it will be more of the same, I am happy with how our preparation is going but we will continue to work hard.ÔÇØ Continued Muller.
Source: Irish Hockey Association
