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Scotland v Australia 1pm start
Scotland have left out Murad for their match against Slovakia. On ratings this looks set to be a very close match; It would be nice to come away with a win from this one.
Yes, we might be slight favourites strictly on ratings but most of the time at this level they are a tenuous guide at best. I think it's fair to say that if a player is selected for this event, they will probably be improving rapidly and as we have we have seen already grading differences of 4-500 points can not only be within scope but can be surmounted.
One thing I have noticed is that a few countries (and I am glad to say it is very few) are being a little creative in the rule regarding a girl player must be in the playing squad and perhaps are not giving them as equal a number of games as the boys. Thankfully, we don't and never will fall into that category.
Very early stages, but I'd say a cautiously optimistic start
Looking at Declan's position today and Murad's game yesterday - they are carrying on good form from Scottish
Euan's soon turned a bit nasty and I think we are looking at going down 2.5 - 1.5 unfortunately.
Slovakia match ended 1.5 - 2.5 as it looked like going for some time. It is Ireland next, who appear to have a weakened team, so I would say this is a must win.
9 am start today for Scotland v Ireland. Another round at 3.30 pm our time.
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Diana has had a bit of a nightmare on board 1 so it is 1-0 to Scotland.