The nation is still basking in the sunshine after the reign over Spain but you just know storm clouds are gathering again as we get set to return to domestic rivalries. At least Steve Clarke’s side’s magnificent win against the Spanish is still fresh in the mind – at least for now.
Clark Miller, via email, said: “To all the people out there who question our sanity spending thousands of pounds and generally falling out with the wife over travelling with the Tartan Army to far flung countries. After Tuesday night's result, this is why we do it! Well done lads, see you in Oslo in June.” Kenny Wilson, Moffat, said: “Outstanding performance from Scotland and it was pretty comfortable as well. Not the best Spanish side I’ve seen but take nothing away, it was a great result and puts us in a strong position. Every player was outstanding but I hope Kieran Tierney moves from Arsenal. He's far too good a player to be sitting on the bench. What a great job Steve Clarke is doing.”
The nation might be on Cloud Nine but some folk can still feel rain. But Alan Flett said: “Here we go again. Scotland win successive games against a poor Cyprus team and the worst Spanish side for 20 years and they think they’re world beaters. When they play Norway, Haaland will tear that defence to shreds.”
Also John Begley, Uddingston, said: “I find it disgraceful that, although I pay nearly £100 per month, I cannot watch Scotland games without agreeing to a further subscription. I can watch all England games, friendlies, women's games, cricket etc, but not my own country in important qualifiers. My subscription even allowed one Viaplay channel but they showed the Turkey game. Unbelievable and unacceptable.”
One for the broadcasters to answer unfortunately. Speaking of tough questions, the fallout from Rangers coach Craig McPherson’s antics in the women’s Old Firm clash continues.
Stephen Johnstone, Ardentinny, said: “The SFA need to change their disciplinary procedures, policies and punishments so anyone found guilty of any serious offence that causes physical harm to any player/manager are banned for life – not just a few games. Police Scotland should also intervene to stamp out this thuggish behaviour we are seeing week in and out in Scottish football.”
There’s also still chat about the Steve Gerrard flashpoint in the legends game with Celtic last weekend. Chris Lowe, Yoker, said: “So Celtic fans pelt Gerrard with plastic bottles coins and sectarian abuse for the duration of the game but it’s somehow his fault as he celebrated in front of them I can only imagine the antics of Neil Lennon, Scott Brown and Leigh Griffiths over the years have been forgotten by them.”
On to matters on the pitch and Allan McGregor is set to clock up 500 games for Rangers. Robert Livingston, Palm Beach, said: “It’s a wonderful milestone for the goalie to play 500 games for the famous Light Blues. He’s now in the twilight of a magnificent playing career but age was never a barrier for this Rangers great. He should be made captain for his 500th game.”
Still on goalies, Shay Given praised Celtic no.1 Joe Hart on these pages yesterday and insisted the Hoops ace can play into his forties. Stephen Mulhern, Dumbarton, agrees and said: “I certainly hope this is the case. He has been a key element in Celtic's defensive record this season and I think it’s a travesty that he hasn’t been recalled to the England squad by now."
It's been a monumental week for Scotland - but what do you make of today's Hotline?
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