Celtic duo play their part in Scotland’s brilliant World Cup win over Greece

Scotland produced a surprising 3-1 triumph over Greece at Hampden in Thursday’s Group C qualifier, edging closer to their first World Cup appearance since 1998, while manager Steve Clarke matched the national record for the most matches in charge.

Ryan Christie, Lewis Ferguson, and Lyndon Dykes each found the net to overturn the deficit for Clarke’s men following Kostas Tsimikas’ goal that had put Greece ahead shortly after the hour mark.

Tony Ralston was subbed on 15 minutes into the second half after Aaron Hickey suffered another injury, while Kieran Tierney was brought onto the pitch for his ex-Hoops teammate Ryan Christie with seven minutes of normal time remaining.

The Tartan Army had to endure a frustrating first half at the national stadium as Scotland failed to register a single shot on target, while Greece controlled possession yet wasted more than their fair share of chances.

Tsimikas opened the scoring in the 62nd minute, only for Scotland to respond swiftly with Christie’s unexpected equaliser two minutes later after a lengthy VAR check.

Ferguson followed up with a scrappy yet memorable first international goal in the 80th minute, and Dykes sealed the 3-1 win three minutes into stoppage time after a howler by Greek goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis.

Last night’s game marked Clarke’s 71st in charge for the country, and he is set to surpass Craig Brown’s record when his unbeaten squad faces winless Belarus on Sunday at Hampden, a match that could guarantee at least a playoff place for next year’s World Cup.

After three matches, Scotland sit on seven points, level on points but trailing group leaders and Kasper Schmeichel’s Denmark on goal difference.

Greece have just three points from three games and face the threat of an early exit, with a vital away clash against the Danes coming up this weekend.  Probably a draw in that match would suit Scotland. However Greece really now need to win their three remaining games to keep their dream alive.  A draw in Copenhagen coupled with a Scotland win over Belarus would mean Scotland would qualify with a draw in Athens and a home win over Denmark.

It’s all to play for as Anthony Ralston, Kieran Tierney and their Scotland teammates look to qualify for the World Cup Finals for the first time since 1998. They certainly rode their luck last night so hopefully the good fortune stays with them in the next three matches.

Conor Spence