17 Scots will make the two day journey to Invercargill, New Zealand 7-15 November to compete against top world teams at the World Cup qualifier held at Turnbull Thompson Stadium.
“The squad selected reflects exactly what we set out to get- a mix of experienced internationals and promising juniors to develop a larger, and more competitive, pool of players,” explained manager Dave Reid.
Promising juniors on the development fast track include Inverleith’s John Harris and Grange’s Wei Adams who both gained their first senior cap against Ireland earlier this month in Banbridge. Harris, who recently moved to Scotland, has made a quick jump from U21 level to senior play and Adams only played a few matches at junior level before also moving up. Senior regulars Callum Milne and Adam McKenzie, also from Inverleith, won’t be able to make the trip due to injury and availability.
“There are no easy games at this tournament,” said Reid. “Our first games against China and New Zealand will give players more experience against different styles of play. We’ll take knowledge gained into following matches against Malaysia, Austria and Wales-games where we’re really looking for results.”
Competition will be tough, but Reid is clear Scotland will come away with improvements: “Only one team will qualify for the World Cup from this tournament but points earned will affect world rankings. The better we do in New Zealand helps our world rankings and will make us a more viable opponent for top world teams. We’d be more likely to get invited to play top teams which would further enhance our development.”
Scotland’s schedule includes: China on Saturday, 7th November at 12:00; New Zealand on Sunday, 8th November at 13:00; Austria on Tuesday, 10th November at 14:00; Malaysia on Thursday, 12th November at 14:00 and Wales on Saturday, 14th November at 10:00. All games are played at local UCT time in New Zealand.
http://ne14hockey.wordpress.com/2009/10/18/scotland-ready-for-world-cup-qualifier/
http://www.ne14hockey.co.uk/article/scotland-ready-for-world-cup-qualifier/1205/
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