Glasgow 2014

England beat Scotland to book women's hockey semi-final spot

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter

Published: July 30 2014 | 10:52

Last updated: July 30 2014 | 12:33

England beat Scotland at the Commonwealth Games to advance through to the semi-final of the women's hockey.

England have defeated Scotland 2-1 to book their place in the semi-finals of the women's hockey at the Commonwealth Games.

A draw would have been enough to see England advance from Pool B along with Australia, while Scotland needed a victory at the National Hockey Centre in Glasgow.

Players of England celebrates the firts goal during the Women's preliminaries match between Scotland and England at Glasgow National Hockey Centre during day seven of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games on July 30, 2014 © Getty Images

Sophie Bray and Alex Danson were unable to beat Amy Gibson with the first openings of the game, but Danson wriggled her way free after collecting a pass from Nicola White moments later to give England first blood.

Things turned worse for the hosts when Susannah Townsend doubled England's lead following a penalty corner, although Nikki Kidd kept hopes alive from a penalty corner of her own just minutes later.

Despite pushing the 'Auld Enemy' all the way in the second half for an equaliser, Scotland were unable to find a way through and England held on for progression to the semi-finals, where they are likely to meet New Zealand.