Goalkeeper Tommy Alexander described Scotland’s hockey thumping by villainous Australia as a butt-kicking after they lost 12-0 at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Derek Forsyth’s side were hit for a dozen by the defending champions and world No.1 side with six goals coming in each half as defender Jeremy Hayward helped himself to four.

It was role reversal for the Scots who had led New Zealand 5-1 in their opening encounter before settling for a thrilling 5-5 draw and now face an uphill battle to stay in medal contention with South Africa next on Monday in Pool A.

Alexander, who helped prevent further damage with several sharp stops, said: “They’ve just no remorse, they don’t mind coming here and being the bad guy.

“They love being a villain and that’s probably why they’re No.1. It’s a bit of a butt-kicking but they do it to most people.

“They are relentless and pushed us on to the back foot a lot today but we never expected to come here and win this game, we have other games that we expect more from.

“It’s a hard one because there’s no doubt they’re the best team in the world and we’re a way off that.”

Australia’s blitz took the shine off captain Alan Forsyth’s 150th appearance for Scotland but he believes there is enough character within the squad to bounce back from Sunday's humbling.

He said: “Right now, it’s probably one I want to forget to be honest. I’ll look back maybe when I’m a bit older and I’m sure it will be a nice achievement for me but it’s tough because I’m very result-focused so unfortunately all I’m thinking about is that.

“Losing is never easy, it was a difficult game but we are a strong enough team to get together, refuel and recover ready for tomorrow.

“The way the team is going now, someone wears the armband and there are people in the leadership group but if anyone has something to say they can stand up and say it, no matter who it is. There’s real character in the team.”

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