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PICTURES: Long wait ends in disappointment for Scotland fans


By Gavin Musgrove

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Scotland's 23-year wait to appear at a major footballing tournament ultimately ended in disappointment this afternoon.

Fans did gather at bars in the strath for the Euros 2020 clash against the Czech Republic but most elected to either watch it at home or catch up on what they could at work.

The Covid-19 pandemic and 2pm kick-off time on a Monday meant that the pubs were not overspilling as otherwise might have been expected.

The Balavoulin was the busiest pub in Aviemore and there was a good friendly atmosphere pre-match.

The Cairngorm Hotel, another of the popular bars in the village for watching the football, was quieter as tables had to be reserved due to the Covid situation.

School children at Aviemore Primary School also got to watch the game in the older classes.

Hopes had been high going into the game with the Scots having a great record against the Czechs, winning their last three encounters.

Sadly Scotland's first appearance at a major international tournament since the World Cup in France in 1998 ended in defeat.

Czech striker Patrik Schick bagged a double including his second from just inside the halfway line with a wonder strike over stranded home keeper Marshall to sink the Scots.

There were only 12000 fans inside Hampden because of the pandemic but there was a rousing rendition of Flower of Scotland by them and Steve Clarke's men.

Despite a bright start and some good chances, Scotland were unable to make the breakthrough before Schick struck with a header just before the break and a sublime long range effort seven minutes into the second half from nearly 50 yards.

Czech keeper Vaclik made two great stops - with his fingertips and then with his toetips - to deny Scotland from getting back into the game – the first just three minutes before the Czech's extended their lead.

Attention now turns to the clash with England at Wembley on Friday evening with Scotland needing at least a draw in all likelihood to keep their dreams of progressing from the group alive.

With the four best third placed teams qualifying also for the knock-out stages at this tournament as well as the top two teams in each of the six groups, however, and Croatia to come at Hampden, there is still hope.


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