Last gasp England beat Scotland in Sevens

Scotland 19 England 24

England scored an injury-time try against Scotland today to snatch victory in the opening match of the IRB Emirates Airline Dubai Sevens.

Scotland were leading when the hooter sounded to signal the end of normal time, and needed just a kick into touch to secure a victory before replacement Peter Richards struck.

“It’s very disappointing,” said Scotland coach Bob Easson. “We lost it on detail, missing two crucial tackles which allowed them to score.

“We were very close to an excellent win, scoring good tries in the process and putting England under a lot of pressure but sadly it wasn’t to be.”

Andrew Turnbull’s try put Scotland ahead 12-5 but Simon Amor reduced the deficit on the stroke of half-time.

Half-time replacement Paul Boston notched up a third try for his side to restore Scotland’s cushion, and England were reduced to six men as Kai Horstmann was shown the yellow card for obstruction.

England looked set for defeat when Boston scored again. But Ugo Monye gave England a chance and Richards’ managed to grab a dramatic last-gasp victory.