The weekend of the 19/20^th June, saw James & George Collie’s IT Manager Angie Keith proudly represent her country at Over 40’s Hockey. While the passport wasn’t essential for the trip to Swansea Angie took it anyway, in the hope that she’d be asked proof of age.  Angie has had an injury prone season for her club however with the help of Yoga and Anne-Maryse Churchill’s exercise class.  Angie was able to perform and excel in the Hockey Four Home Nation Championships.                                 

Scotland started off with Ireland and disposed of their fellow Celtic nation convincingly 3 nil. While Angie was predominately dealing with Irelands attacks at centre of defence a sudden promotion as a centre midfield maestro meant our IT Manager even managed to get into the opponents half. 

The heat of the day was now beginning to become a factor, honest age had nothing to do with the tired legs starting to creak.  Next up ENGLAND……………… a 6 goal thriller was served up… Scotland racing into a 2 goal lead with 2 fantastic goals.  However, England came roaring back, and suddenly Scotland where 3-2 down.  Chances where falling at both ends, and then Scotland were all square.  Angie was beginning to feel the pace and a re-boot was clearly essential. 

Obviously Angie, being the complete athlete was straight into an ice bath with lots of hydration and a healthy carb intake. Well that’s what she said! Next morning saw Scotland and Angie take on the home nation Wales. Scotland produced a fabulous display of their attacking powers winning 5-2 and with Angie managing a shot. Angie showed her adaptability with a commanding game as an attacking right midfielder! 

All that was left was for the Scottish girls were to become nervous supporters at the England v Ireland game.  A calculator and some old fashioned paper and pencil where needed, Angie of course had her iPhone at the ready, the equation was clear.  England needed to win by 6 clear goals to pip Scotland to the crown.  In a game that produced 6 goals, 3 flicks (had our Scottish Umpire not read the script!) a green card and some great hockey the scene was set.  The final whistle blew and the Scottish girls were celebrating, England had pushed it right to the wire with a 5-1 victory, 2 goals shy.