Scotland took a huge step towards promotion in the UEFA Nations League (UNL) thanks to a 2-1 win over the Republic of Ireland. Steve Clarke’s men continued their unbeaten start to the tournament, having now won seven of their eight home fixtures (D1), however Ireland now have just one win from 15 UNL games (D6, L8).
Scotland started the game on the front foot and as a result had the first chance, as Ryan Christie worked himself some space but could only drag his shot wide of the post. However it was Ireland who thought they’d taken the lead, as Troy Parrott had the ball in the net after beating two defenders but the assistant had his flag up.
The visitors would take the lead shortly after though, as Ireland managed to keep the ball alive from a corner and the ball fell nicely for John Egan before he drilled the ball into the bottom corner. The Tartan Army had a golden chance to equalise, as Stuart Armstrong whipped a dangerous ball into the box but John McGinn couldn’t direct his volley on target.
Scotland did manage to get the equaliser shortly after the restart, as Christie put a dangerous ball into the box and Jack Hendry directed a header into the far corner. With momentum behind them, Steve Clarke’s men started to press for a goal to put them ahead and almost had it, as McGinn found himself in space on the edge of the box before hitting a drilled low effort, but it went wide of the post.
The Boys in Green fought back and almost took the lead from a dangerous counter attack, as Michael Obafemi broke away with the ball before playing it across to Parrott, but the striker was denied by a good save from Craig Gordon. Chances were coming at both ends, as Ryan Fraser cut in and struck a shot towards goal but Gavin Bazunu made a good save to keep the scores even.
Scotland were handed an opportunity to take the lead with 10 minutes to play as they were awarded a penalty as Scott McTominay headed the ball onto the hand of Alan Browne, Christie stepped up to take the spot kick and sent the Southampton stopper the wrong way to seal victory for the Scots.
