On Friday evening Scotland continued their winless run in the FIFA World Cup 2014 qualifying campaign, once again letting a lead slip to find themselves on the wrong end of a 2-1 scoreline against Wales. The match was Gordon Strachan’s first competitive game in charge, following the 1-0 friendly win over Estonia in February. Both performance and result left a lot to be desired, however, and what follows is five things that the ninety minutes of pain told us:
It would be fair to say that Scotland’s current attempt to qualify for a World Cup will almost certainly end up fruitless. Ask most members of the Tartan Army what they’ve thought about the performances over the first 4 games and there’s a reasonable chance that the reply will also start with an f word, in short, its been a dogs dinner of a campaign. Whilst Gordon Strachan’s first competitive match on Friday night against Wales may not have a baring in terms of qualifying, there is still the small matter of pride, and future seedings to play for.
Scotland manager Gordon Strachan named the squad this afternoon for his first competitive action since taking the job, and included the uncapped trio of George Boyd, Liam Bridcutt and Gary Mackay-Steven. Scotland face Wales on Friday 22nd March at Hampden before travelling to the Karadorde Stadium in Novi Sad to play Serbia the following Tuesday.
Gordon Strachan has been named as the new coach of the Scottish national team today on a three and a half year deal. The former Celtic boss replaces Craig Levein, who was sacked in November after a disastrous start to the FIFA World Cup 2014 qualifying campaign, and will be charged with trying to end Scotland’s long wait for major tournament qualification.
The year 2012 will not be looked back on with fond memories for Scotland. Only two wins from eight games, not a single one in competitive action, and yet another major tournament passing us by with noses pressed up against the window. Only if you’re into football betting and laid on the inevitability of Craig Levein’s eventual sacking can you have taken any satisfaction from the year as a Scotland fan.
Supporting the Scotland national football team from a fresh perspective.
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