Hockey: Brown is doubtful England starter

ENGLAND'S World Cup teams spent yesterday preparing for crucial games today, against Argentina for the women, and Pakistan, the defending world champions, for the men.

The women may have to cope without Karen Brown, who is a very doubtful starter after suffering a hand injury against the Dutch on Thursday.

The only game of direct British interest yesterday saw Scotland go down 2-1 to the USA in their second defeat of the tournament.

After conceding a penalty corner goal to Kate Barber in the second minute, Scotland struggled to get into their stride and the Americans claimed a second through their captain, Tracey Fuchs, six minutes into the second half.

The second goal forced the Scotland coach Mike Gilbert to change three front-runners, which brought his side back into the game.

Scotland then created a series of chances, with Rhona Simpson missing several good opportunities before, with 14 minutes to go, she won a penalty stroke when obstructed by the goalkeeper. Sue MacDonald made no mistake from the spot, but the Scots did not capitalise on several chances to equalise.

The Goalkeeper Tracey Robb played well, with one outstanding save from Kelli James, while Val Neil was the pick of an often overworked defence.

Gilbert said: "This was a game we thought we could win. We had enough chances, creating a lot of pressure and having plenty of possession."