ENGLAND got their Seniors’ World Cup campaign off to the perfect start with a 2-1 win over Scotland at the Hua Hin Stadium.
Former Weymouth midfielder Lee Elam was instrumental for England, winning a penalty from which Peter Beagrie opened the scoring in the first half.
Soon after the break, Elam latched on to a Rod Thornley through ball to double England’s advantage before Scotland pulled a goal back in torrential rain.
Dorchester Town boss Steve Thompson is part of England’s 24-man squad although he did not start against Scotland.
With two more games in two days, midfielder Thompson could be in contention for a more substantial role as England take on Taiwan today (12pm) and New Zealand tomorrow (10am).
Earlier in the week, England secured a comfortable 4-0 win over Thailand B, at RBAC University in Bangkok, as their preparations for the defence of their title continued.
Both sides were forced to battle against the elements in a rain-affected match, but England, including Thompson, were able to get some much-needed game time ahead of the Scotland game.
England were 3-0 up at the break through goals by Beagrie, Barry Hayles and Mark Saunders.
In an even second half, Thornley went close before Alex Russell grabbed England’s fourth.
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