Dunedin, Feb 17 (IANS): Scotland skipper Preston Mommsen has said he is impressed with the fight they put up against New Zealand in their three-wicket defeat in a cricket World Cup Pool A encounter here Tuesday that highlighted the team's strong character.

Scotland were bowled out for just 142 runs in 36.2 overs after being sent in to bat by New Zealand at the University Oval ground.

They lost wickets from the very beginning and never looked like posting a respectable score. But a 97-run fifth wicket partnership between Matt Machan (56) and Richie Berrington (50) saved them from deep embarrassment.

The bowlers outshone the batsmen, impressing with their disciplined approach to give the home team a scare, picking up seven wickets.

Right-arm pacer Iain Wardlaw (3/57) struck meaty blows to check New Zealand's attempted quick march to victory. Fellow right-armer Josh Davey (3/40) also impressed.

"We are very proud of the fight we put up and the character these boys have shown. We are not shy of the fact that we are a very inexperienced team in World Cups," Mommsen said at the post match presentation ceremony.

"Glad to get this first one out of the way, and now we are ready for England."

Scotland next play England Feb 23 at Christchurch.

The 27-year-old praised Machan and Berrington for their knocks and added that the bowling was commendable too.

"Tough start for us as we were unfortunate to lose a few early ones, but credit to Machan and Richie for batting through that difficult period. We also bowled in the right areas for which we got our rewards."