Oli Burke’s dramatic late goal ensured that Steve Clarke’s tenure as Scotland manager would get off to a winning start, overcoming a dogged Cyprus side to record a 2-1 victory at Hampden Park this evening.
Saturday 8 June 2019
UEFA EURO 2020 Qualifier
Scotland 2-1 Cyprus
Saturday, 8 June 2019, kick-off 7.45pm
Hampden Park
Scorers: Robertson 61, Burke 88; Kousoulos 86
SFA REPORT:
Andy Robertson had given the home side the lead in spectacular fashion just after the hour mark, as over 31,000 spectators saw their team claim a valuable three points in the hunt for UEFA EURO 2020 qualification.
Already in full voice, Scotland almost made the perfect start with just five minutes on the clock. Callum McGregor’s through ball found James Forrest, the winger linking up well with Ryan Fraser before firing a rasping drive just over the crossbar.
Clarke’s men were looking comfortable in possession, as the midfield trio of McGregor, John McGinn and Kenny McLean sought to dictate proceedings in the early exchanges. The wider channels were also proving to be a successful outlet for the hosts, with Robertson dove-tailing with Fraser to offer a constant threat down the left-hand side.
The visitors were struggling to sustain an attacking threat of their own, yet Antreas Makris forced David Marshall into action on 18 minutes with a drive from the edge of the Scotland penalty area. The Hull goalkeeper – winning his first cap for almost three years – was equal to the test, however, keeping the game goalless in the late evening sunshine.
Marshall’s counterpart Urko Pardo was also busy, with the Cypriot goalkeeper getting down well to turn a Charlie Mulgrew free-kick behind on 26 minutes. From the resulting corner Eamonn Brophy was unable to bundle the ball home, the Kilmarnock striker heading wide under pressure.
Source: https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/news/scotland-strike-late-to-claim-victory-over-cyprus/?rid=13925
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