A poor attendance of only 180 souls saw the Republic of Ireland start nervously in their opening game at Kettering in the Four Nations Tournment.
The Irish could have fallen behind within two minutes to a lively Scotland but eventually took control over their less physical opposition to lead 1-0 at half time.
The game's opening chance fell to Scotland when a cross from Stephens on the right was punched only as far as Johnston. The centre forward should have scored but scuffed his shot wide to the relief of Shay Kelly.
The Irish had to wait until 26 minutes before their first attempt on goal when Trevor Molloy's shot was blocked following a good passing movement.
The clearance got as far as David Crawley who crossed from the left just inside his own half to the far post where Vinny Arkins was lurking and sweetly lobbed Rae for the opening goal.
A defensive error by Jodie Lynch after 34 minutes allowed Johnston through again but Crawley's interception 12 yards out was adjudged a back pass by the referee as Kelly collected. The resultant free kick was hit with venom but the wall held and cleared any danger.
A corner on the left after 41 minutes almost gave Ireland a second when Paul Osam's header was cleared to Arkins who tried to curl his shot around the keeper but Rea saved at his second attempt.
Trevor Molloy extended the lead on 52 minutes when Ireland were awarded a free kick 20 yards out on the right. While the Scots were busy organising themselves, Molloy cheekily chipped into an empty net.
Rep of Ireland: Shay Kelly; Colm Tresson, David Crawley, Jodie Lynch, Clive Delaney; Tony Gorman, Paul Osam (Alan Murphy HT), Billy Woods (Derek O'Brien 62); Trevor Molloy, Jason Byrne, Vinny Arkins.
Referee: Mr P Walton
Attendance:180
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