SA women off to winning start

London - The South African women's hockey team opened their account in the Investec London Cup with a 2-0 win over Scotland in London on Wednesday.

South African striker Kathleen Taylor was in good form, scoring a brace, her first goal in the 15th minute and the second at the 65-minute mark.

Goalkeeper Anelle van Deventer was instrumental in the win, keeping her team in the game with a number of saves during periods of dominant Scotland play at stages in both halves.

Scottish keeper Amy Gibson was also in good form and denied the South African strikeforce both before and after the changeover, but in particular three gilt-edged chances soon after half-time.

South Africa's win was achieved with just 14 players while Scotland had the full complement of their 11 starting line-up players and seven rolling subs.

Several South African players have still to play in London due to unavoidable work and study commitments.

Striker Sulette Damons is not available for this tournament at all, but will be back for the Commonwealth Games later this month.