Sussex player Matt Machan top scored as Scotland gave New Zealand a real scare in the World Cup.

Machan made 56 from 79 balls as Scotland recovered from 12-4 to post what appeared to be a low total of 142 all out from 36 overs.

But New Zealand then struggled to 146-7 to claim victory by three wickets.

Trent Boult took two for 21 to be the pick of a blistering New Zealand attack, which left Scotland with four golden ducks.

 Machan and Richie Berrington (50 off 80 balls) helped Scotland eke out a total of 142, but the Kiwis still looked set to claim an easy win.

The Scots dug in, though, and Kane Williamson's 45-ball 38 was the top individual score for the Black Caps as they pushed hard and lost seven wickets before ultimately claiming the win with 151 balls remaining.

Hopes will remain high that Scotland can win their first-ever World Cup match at this year's tournament.

Scotland skipper Preston Mommsen praised Machan and Berrington's efforts, which helped to give his side a fighting chance when they had looked doomed.

He said: ''It was a very tough start for us, obviously the ball was doing a little bit more than expected and to be fair they bowled very well and exploited the conditions.

''Unfortunately we lost a few early ones but credit to Matthew and Richie batting through the middle there. I think they showed what we are capable of.

''Unfortunately they couldn't go on for longer and we were well below par in the target we set.''