Scotland retained the shinty / hurling crown against Ireland in the combined rules exchange between the two nations on Saturday, winning the match 13-12 at a damp Nowlan Park in Kilkenny.

The Irish behemoths were left stunned by Scotland, after the string of big names in the Irish line-up was expected to be too strong for the highlanders.

The Irish suffered a similar fate to the USA All-Star basketballers of the 2004 Olympics, and failed to live up to their big-name billing by delivering an under-par performance that was usurped by Scottish teamwork and determination.

Scotland, now unbeaten since 2003, may be faced with the prospect of another away tie next year, as the Irish GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) will be celebrating their 125th anniversary.

Scotland: S McNeil; J Barr; S Campbell; A Mackenzie; I MacDonald; S Nicholson; N Robertson; K Ross; F MacRae; G Innes; N MacPhee; J Stewart; H Whitelaw; A Corrigan;
Subs: R Graham for Nicholson (43); E Tembo for Stewart (61)
Coach: Fraser Mackenzie