Celtic players past and present combined to help Steve Clarke’s Scotland come back from a goal down and defeat the Republic of Ireland 2-1 at Hampden this evening.
A total of seven players who are currently or were formerly on the books at the Bhoys started the match, as Scotland searched for progress toward an impressive promotion into the top tier of the Nations League. Greg Taylor and Anthony Ralston also came into the match as substitutes.
Former Celtic defender Jack Hendry scored an excellent header after good work from Ryan Christie and Taylor, then, Christie scored from a spot-kick in the 82nd minute to send the Irish away without anything for their efforts.
In truth, Ireland had the chances to get something from the match and had initially shocked the home side after Sheffield United defender John Egan capitalised on poor Scotland defending at a set-piece early on.
It wasn’t a classic Scotland performance by any means – it was undoubtedly a level below the second half against Ukraine on Wednesday night. But Clarke’s side now tops Nations League Group B1, two points clear of the second-placed Ukrainians.
A point away to Ukraine mid-week, in Poland, will be enough to guarantee a Euro 2024 playoff berth and promotion into the elite groupings, which contain countries such as Italy, Spain, Germany and the Netherlands, amongst others. It will also ensure better seeding in the upcoming qualifying campaign for those Euros.
It’s a huge opportunity for Scotland and Celtic players to make their mark on the international stage and take a big step forward on their current journey under Clarke.
After such a big disaster in the summer, a positive performance and result will go some way to getting back on track.
The grit and determination of these players were as important tonight as pretty football, which will serve the Scots well for their trip abroad. It’ll be a big night.
In other news, Former Celtic hero on road to management return after damaging sacking.
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