Short Corner 8212; Chandigarh

Self goal seals Scottish dream
An own goal by defender Tommy Boyd gave champions Brazil a 2-1 win over underdogs Scotland in the World Cup8217;s opening game today. Scotland appeared to be heading for a surprise 1-1 draw against the flamboyant but often erratic South Americans in a thrilling group A match at the Stade de France. But Boyd was helpless in the 73rd minute when Cafu8217;s shot was parried onto his body by Scottish goalkeeper Jim Leighton. The ball rolled agonisingly into the net to extinguish Scottish resistance.

Violence Mars Opening
Fifteen alleged troublemakers were in custody and two police officers in hospital today after a rash of violence marred the opening World Cup extravaganza, but officials said the night had gone as well as could be expected. 8220;What happened is regrettable, it8217;s a shame and it has tarnished the image of the celebrations. But it was no big deal with 200,000 people in the streets,8221; said Rene Georges Querry, head of French security operations during World Cup.

Rendse Out
South African goalkeeper Andrea Rendse is out of the World Cup, team officials announced here today, after he had surgery for a torn knee cartilege.

Neelam Shines
Neelam J Singh and Jothirmoy Sikdar stole the show in the second National Athletics Circuit meet on Wednesday. Neelam came up with a stunning performance in the discus event, her heave of 57.94 metres surpassing her performance in the recent meet at Nagercoil, besides bettering her own national record which stood at 56.66 metres.

Lanka Struggling
Sri Lanka were 200 for eight at close of play on the first day of the third and final Test against New Zealand today. New Zealand all-rounder Chris Cairns completed a unique father-son double today when he took his 100th Test wicket.