Scotland edge past Wales in World Cup qualifying

Scotland edged past Wales 1-0 as the rivals began their Hockey World Cup qualifying campaigns in Hyderabad, India.

Vice-captain Amy Costello opened the scoring for the Scots in the second quarter as she perfectly threaded penalty corner past Ffion Horrell.

In a game of few chances, Welsh forward Betsan Thomas' speed and stick control regularly caused problems for the Scottish defenders.

Thomas managed to force her side's first penalty corner, from which Caitlin Witham drew a save from Jessica Buchanan in the Scottish net.

Sarah Jamieson came close to extending the lead, but she hit the post in the third quarter and Scotland's standout player Ellie Mackenzie did the same in the fourth.

It was a youthful looking Welsh side, with six of the 20 players in the squad featuring for the U21s at the Junior World Cup in December.

Wales head coach Kevin Johnson rotated his goalkeepers every quarter as Amy Hughes made her debut.

There were also senior debuts for Jamie Bulbring, Tilly Edwards and Holly Done.

Wales are seeking their first Hockey World Cup qualification since 1983 while Scotland are aiming to make their first World Cup finals for 20 years.

Wales will face Uruguay in their second pool fixture on Monday (11:45 GMT) while Scotland face hosts India (14:00 GMT).

Hosts India meet Uruguay in Pool B's other match on Sunday.

England beat Italy 5-2 while South Korea beat Austria 1-0 in Pool A.