This Euro 2024 qualifier was a game that almost required two days to complete due to torrential rain. The biblical downpour caused a delay of around an hour and a half, only six minutes into the game. Eventually, the match finished at 11:19 pm.
At the final whistle, Steve Clarke’s impressive Scotland team secured a fourth victory, gaining 12 points and putting them on track to reach the finals in Germany next year. The manager has built a well-drilled unit that showcases the higher-end talents of players like Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay (who scored the second goal), and John McGinn. This victory was more comprehensive than the close win against Norway three days earlier.
The determination and spirit of the Scottish team were evident as they closed out the game under the now clear skies. Even in the face of rare Georgia forays, players like Lyndon Dykes sprinted back to cover defensively. The Hungarian referee, Istvan Vad, inspected the pitch due to the heavy rain, but ultimately decided that the game could go on much to the delight of the sell-out crowd. The supporters sang in the rain as Scotland aimed for their fourth straight win, having already defeated Cyprus, Spain, and Norway. Georgia entered the game with four points.
The adverse weather conditions, with puddles on the field, were noticeable when the ball was played and during a McTominay backheel attempt. These conditions led to the extensive pause in the game.
Six minutes into the match, Scotland scored their first goal from a McGinn corner. After the ball slowed down in the water, Callum McGregor capitalized and smashed it into the net. This prompted Istvan Vad to inspect the field, leading to a suspension of the game while ground staff worked to make the surface playable.
After two unsuccessful inspections, the game finally resumed following a third assessment. The Georgia team was initially reluctant to start again, which earned them boos from the crowd. Scotland took control of the game, led by Robertson and McTominay. Georgia’s No. 10, Otar Kiteishvili, showed glimpses of his skills, connecting with teammates’ passes confidently.
Near the end of the first half, McTominay forced a save from the Georgia goalkeeper, Mamardashvili, and McGinn’s shot was deflected to safety. Early in the second half, McTominay scored his third goal in this group stage and his fifth overall, causing an eruption of cheers from the crowd. Scotland had a firm grip on the match.
Georgia tried to respond, but Scotland’s defense handled the threat well. McGregor and McTominay continued to create chances for Scotland, with the latter coming close with a long-range attempt. Billy Gilmour, the only change from the previous game, showcased his movement and bravery on the ball. The Georgia team resorted to fouling him, but it had little impact.
Despite missing a penalty in stoppage time, Clarke’s team maintained their dominance. McTominay praised the crowd for their patience and support throughout the game.
In conclusion, Scotland’s impressive performance in the Euro 2024 qualifier, despite the weather delays, showcased their promising prospects for next year’s finals in Germany. The team’s unity, skills of key players, and the unfaltering support of the crowd propelled them to victory.
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