Scotland win Para Mixed Pairs gold after thrilling tie-break

Mary Stevenson, Jim Aitken, Robert Barr and Sarah-Jane Ewing held their nerve to defeat England and claim Commonwealth Games gold in Glasgow.

Scotland’s Para Mixed Pairs B2-B3 team produced a performance to remember as they defeated England in a dramatic tie-break to become Commonwealth Games champions.

England took the opening set 7-2, but the Scots responded superbly to win the second 6-3 and force a one-end tie-break at the SEC.

With the gold medal on the line, Robert produced outstanding pressure shots to help Scotland secure the decisive end and spark jubilant celebrations on the green.

“It feels absolutely brilliant,” said Robert. “It was such a tough game right to the very end, and we just kept our nerve and managed to get through.”

Asked whether his penultimate delivery in the tie-break was one of the best shots he had played under that level of pressure, Robert added: “Yeah, I think it probably was. To take a bowl off clean like that, and then when the skip drew the shot again, I had to do the same thing again.”

The victory completed a memorable Commonwealth Games experience for Mary, who paid tribute to the home support throughout the competition.

“It’s been fantastic,” said Mary. “The crowds have been great, the company has been great, and I’m just over the moon even to get here.”

Scotland booked their place in the final by overcoming New Zealand in Monday evening’s semi-final before defeating England when it mattered most.

The result secured Scotland’s first bowls gold medal of Glasgow 2026 and capped a fantastic campaign for Mary, Jim, Robert and Sarah-Jane.

Looking ahead to the celebrations, Robert said he planned to spend time with family and the team’s support staff, while Mary added: “Just go and thank everybody who has supported us.”