SCOTLAND’S bowlers’ hopes of retaining the Hilton Trophy were ended in the final session at the hands of host nation England.

After winning the trophy spectacularly last year, the new-look Scotland gents squad headed for Chelmsford.

The opening session saw Scotland post a 113-103 win over Wales, Aaron Betts and Dean Riva claiming their first caps and debut wins.

Scotland suffered defeats on four of six rinks against Ireland but sizeable wins on the remaining two rinks were enough to see off the Irish 116-96.

After a slow start in the winner-takes-all battle with England, Scotland responded at end five and had England in their sights (23-24) at the halfway point.

At end 17, England took control 95-77. Scotland could not answer and lost out 120-93.

Meanwhile, East Lothian’s ladies progressed to the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup tomorrow (Sunday) as they saw off East Kilbride 8-2 at West Lothian Indoor Bowling Club.

They join Glasgow, East Fife and West Lothian in the last four on April 6 at Whiteinch Bowling Club. The winners of the 11am session will progress to the 3pm final.

The under-35 squads return to action this Sunday as they head to Abbeyview in search of a semi-final place. Both ‘A’ and ‘B’ squads will have one eye on retaining the title the club won last season.

East Lothian ‘A’ tackle Midlothian ‘A’ while East Lothian ‘B’ must contest with home side Abbeyview. Play is scheduled for an 11am start, with winners playing again in the quarter-final at 3pm.