Scotland’s big dress rehearsal aoffered up shot-at-the-big-time auditions to the likes of Anthony Ralston and Lawrence Shankland, but it was a…
Scotland’s big Euros dress rehearsal against Finland offered up shot-at-the-big-time auditions to the likes of Anthony Ralston and Lawrence Shankland, but it was a more seasoned performer who showed just why he is emerging as the principal actor in Steve Clarke’s cast.
He was always available, ready to take the ball whether he was in yards of space to conduct proceedings, or to take the pressure off a teammate who was in a hole. He was all close control, deft flicks and feints, with complete mastery of the ball and an unerring eye for a pass. And it seems, he has come of age going into these European Championships. It is a thrilling prospect to see how he measures up going toe-to-toe with Toni Kroos and co. next week. One thing’s for sure, he won’t be daunted by the prospect.
A more pressing concern given Scotland’s bluntness in attack over the last few friendly outings is how Shankland performed up front, and in the first half, it looked as though his big moment may have been passing him by. Robertson had already got in well down the left to centre for Hoskonen to slice into his own net, when theHe swung a ball towards him, and Shankland showed good strength and a clever feint to get away from his man and bury a header beyond Jesse Joronen.
It looks as though Gordon is going to be one of the unlucky men left behind when the team departs Glasgow this Sunday, and the reception he received from the crowd was an acknowledgment of both that, and what an exceptional servant he has been for Scotland down the years.First, Grant Hanley was caught ball-watching to allow Robin Lod to nod home, before Gordon came out to contest a cross with Tomas Galves.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Craig Beattie says Lawrence Shankland ready to lead line for Scotland at EurosCraig Beattie is backing Shanks to start but Billy Dodds reckons Che Adams could get the nod for one reason.
Read more »
Lawrence Shankland's unseen Scotland contribution explainedLawrence Shankland has been backed by fellow Scotland striker Che Adams, who explained what he is bringing to the role in absence of Lyndon Dykes.
Read more »
Charity claims Lanarkshire communities left ‘abandoned’ over RBS branch closuresAge Scotland has hit out at the closure of Lanarkshire Royal Bank of Scotland branches.
Read more »
Lawrence Shankland backed for awards clean sweep as Hearts set points targetThe Jambos skipper became the first Tynecastle player to win the PFA Scotland Premiership Player of the Year award.
Read more »
Lawrence Shankland a Hearts history maker as Steven Naismith salutes himAnd the Hearts boss his stunning strike in Paisley to reach the milestone was amongst his very best.
Read more »
Lawrence Shankland admits Hearts dressing room rage that set European courseThe Jambos skipper lost his cool after one game but Steven Naismith's side haven't looked back as 30-goal hero looks to Germany.
Read more »