IT was a tough watch.
But a win's a win.
Scotland came through a stern test in the Faroe Islands to make it four wins-in-a-row for Steve Clarke's men.
It's another big result in the context of Group F as the Scots take a step closer to sealing a World Cup play-off place.
Here's how Herald & Times Sport rated Scotland's performance...
Craig Gordon 7
Sensational double-save to prevent a shock opener for the home side after 22-minutes. Proved why he is Scotland’s No.1.
Jack Hendry 5
Like others in the team, he didn’t have his best game. Deservedly now a first choice, his ball-playing ability and pace are two of his top attributes. He didn’t display the former well at all in Tórshavn.
Grant Hanley 6
A welcome addition to the backline after his recent suspension. The defence is better off with him, but overall the three centre backs were shaky at points, especially in the first period.
Kieran Tierney 6
KT made an exceptional last-ditch clearance with just over 15-minutes left to play to prevent the Faroes from scoring a tap-in at the back post. He’s built a good connection with Robbo, but their usual double-team style failed to come off.
Ryan Fraser 6
Considering he was playing slightly out of position, Fraser did okay. His second-half showing was an improvement on the first. Floated some dangerous crosses in which could and should have been converted.
Scott McTominay 5
The Manchester United ace was moved into midfield yet appeared to struggle. Slow on the ball, he was also guilty of poor passing to give away the ball too many times, particularly first half. Slotted back into defence when CalMac came on. Made crucial interception to halt Faroes counter.
Billy Gilmour 7
A real classy player. He seems to do everything in the right manner, something which stands out on a poor night for the team. Had a couple of shots on the edge of the box which went close.
Andy Robertson 6
A much quieter game for the skipper than from his outstanding showing against Israel. As touched upon, the ineffectiveness of he and Tierney’s usual brilliant pairing no doubt played a part in Scotland’s lacklustre performance.
John McGinn 6
Didn’t see as much of the ball as Clarke would’ve liked. Didn’t get the chance to drive at Faroes’ defence, which is a key strength of his. Missed a point-blank header from Fraser’s delicious cross.
Ryan Christie 5
Started in place of Che Adams playing just off Dykes. Tried his best but like many others in the team, struggled to form any sort of rhythm. Booked, meaning he’s suspended for Moldova.
Lyndon Dykes 7
Another goal for the big man with VAR involved again. His hold up play and willingness to chase every lost cause is usually on point. It wasn’t quite there on this occasion. Mind you, he’s a constant threat though, as his late goal proved Booked which means he will also Moldova.
Subs
Callum McGregor (for Hendry 67) 4
Rested from the start, an unusual decision from Clarke.
Kevin Nisbet (for Christie 82) 3
Should’ve been on earlier.
Nathan Patterson (for Fraser 82) 5
Superb impact. Cross for goal was stupendous.
Liam Cooper (for Gilmour) 2
To bolster defence.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel