Tartan Army Issue 2

DEDICATED TO THE SCOTTISH NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM & SUPPORTERS 2019_ISSUE 2

STEVE CLARKE
New boss, new direction.
Can he guide us to the finals?
WOMEN’S
WORLD CUP
Reflecting on how
we did in France
VAR
Your thoughts on its
impact on the game
LUKE SHANLEY
Fans with microphones
AND LOTS
MORE...
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A HUGE ‘THANK YOU” TO EVERYONE WHO READ A
COPY OF THE LAST ISSUE. YOUR SUPPORT, FEEDBACK
AND CONTRIBUTIONS ARE ALWAYS APPRECIATED.

Remember, you can still read a copy of last Issue of
‘Famous Tartan Army Magazine’ free of charge at our website,
which is at www.tartanarmymagazine.com
In the last issue you will find Alex McLeish and Shelley Kerr speaking ‘in
their own words’, read the Tartan Army’s favourite singer Ted Christopher
interview, read the facebook feedback comments on the tartan army
booing the team in San Marino, read about BBC pundit
Chick Young’s love affair with Scotland, Richard McBrearty
column, read the views of Scottish Football Supports
Association, Wilf Parkinson, Diamond Studios, and see epic
tartan army photos, and as they say… lots, lots ,more!

You’ll also find details of how to get your hands on a printed
copy too, while stocks last!

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BOOK REVIEW ARCHIE MACPHERSON’S “ADVENTURES
IN THE GOLDEN AGE” BY NEIL MUNRO
Although headlining Scotland’s six World Cup finals appearances between 1974 and 1998, this book covers all things related to the
Scotland men’s football team during that time when Archie was renowned as one of Scotland’s foremost football commentators.
Primarily working for the BBC and subsequently for Eurosport, he relays his experiences in a way that clearly demonstrates he
was simply doing a job he felt privileged to do.

The chapters are written in chronological order and provide fantastically insightful tales of each campaign. Archie himself was
obviously well-respected amongst the Scottish football community and had a particularly strong relationship with Jock Stein,
who he simply refers to as ‘Stein’ throughout the book. I found it fascinating to read of the uneasy alliances behind the scenes
between the SFA, the playing squad and the press, of player curfews being broken and of Archie himself bristling with disdain
when asked to step aside from commentating duties by BBC HQ in London if they felt there was a Scottish game worth covering.

The title points to it being a ‘golden age’ for the Scottish team, but Archie states he uses this term as a comparison to the barren
run the Scottish team is currently on, having failed to qualify for a major finals since 1998. In fact, he describes in painful detail
some of the disasters, self-inflicted or otherwise, that befell the squad when finals tournaments got underway whilst
still trying to highlight what we’re missing out on through his eyes and those of several other
contributors. Having lived through this era myself, I can relate to the tales of how we never seemed
to get things right through bad luck, lack of preparation or of just not being good enough.

That final point certainly hit home with Archie when he was working for Eurosport at the World
Cup in 1998. His fellow European commentators candidly described Scotland as being brave,
courageous and patriotic like the warriors in Braveheart. In other words, the Scottish squad were
simply in France to make up the numbers.

If I could pick out one flaw it’s that only the final few pages offer an insight into Scotland’s on
going finals absence. Archie suggests that there has been a gradual decline in the quality of
Scottish player and contends that new nations have emerged making Scotland’s qualification task
much harder. Beyond that, there is no in-depth study of how to improve Scottish fortunes.
What does Archie think needs to be done to get Scotland back to a major finals and could
he have asked his many contacts the same question? In my view, players at the top level
are becoming ever more technically skilled and Scotland has simply failed to grasp that,
resulting in our national team being bypassed by many other nations.

It would be interesting to hear the thoughts of someone from the current generation of To read or not to read? Read –
Scottish football fans if they read this book. Can they relate to the stories being told a must for any Scottish football
or would it seem like tales from a bygone age about a nation that has clearly lost its fan who has a genuine affection
footballing way to competing on the largest stage? for the national team.

02

CONTENTS April – June 2019

4–5 Scotland Women’s National Football Team

6 The Journey Starts Here

7 Steve Clarke In His Own Words
8–9 Qualifications? When Will
10 We See The Likes Again
Scotland’s Under 21’s & SFSA

11 Richard McBrearty Column

12–13 Spotlight on TA

14–15 Having Your Say

16–17 Tartan Army Gallery

18–19 TACC

20 Tartan Shorts

21 Shelley Kerr In Her Own Words

22–23 Fans with microphones

24 The Diamomnd Studio Advert Front cover photo by Colin Robinson Imaging

Welcome to Famous Tartan Army Magazine, the second issue of 2019. If you wish to contribute in any way
There has been some change at the top, which we welcome, and we would please get in touch:
like to give a warm welcome to the new man in charge, Steve Clarke, who Browse: www.tartanarmymagazine.com
we wish well in his attempt to lead us to a major tournament again. The Email: [email protected]
Scottish Women’s National Team equipped themselves well at the finals Call: 07725 502 465
in France, and despite being unlucky not to make it out of the group Visit our facebook and Twitter
stage, they can be proud of their efforts and what they have achieved ‘Famous Tartan Army Magazine’
for the Women’s game in Scotland. As always, thank you to all who have
contributed to this edition. Iain Emerson, Editor

SCOTLAND’S INTERNATIONAL HONOURS

Kirin Cup Winners 2006
British International Championships
Outright wins 24 times – 1884, 1885, 1887, 1889, 1894, 1896, 1897, 1900, 1902, 1910, 1921, 1922, 1923,
1925, 1926, 1929, 1936, 1949, 1951, 1962, 1963, 1967, 1976, 1977.
Title shared with at least one other nation
17 times – 1886, 1890, 1903, 1906, 1908, 1912, 1927, 1931, 1935, 1939, 1953, 1956, 1960, 1964,
1970, 1972, 1974

TARTAN ARMY AWARDS

Winners: UEFA Fair Play Award, Euro 1992. Runners-up: (but should have won) UEFA Fair Play Award, Euro 1996
Winners: Fair Play Prize 2001. Awarded by Belgian Olympic Committee for sportmanlike conduct during qualifying
game versus Belgium (the first and only time the award has been presented to anyone outside Belgium).
Awarded: Scroll from Birmingham Council for Outstanding Conduct and Friendliness. Euro 1996.
Awarded: Engraved crystal football awarded to the Tartan Army and Scotland Manager Craig Brown by The Scottish Tourist
Board 1999. Since Scotland hasn’t qualified for any major finals since 1998, the Tartan Army hasn’t been able to scoop any
more awards, so we’ll give it one instead....
Awarded: Best Supporters in the World Ever, no messing, presented to the Tartan Army by The Famous Tartan Army Magazine 2019

03

WILF PARKINSON GIVES HIS VIEW ON

FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP –
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Are we in the midst of a Sporting Revolution, which can best sum up the growth
of attention of women’s football. This has been epitomised so brilliantly in the
2019 Women’s World Cup. More importantly, Scotland were there! A few years
ago most of us involved, or interested in, our great game, did not extend that
interest to Women’s football. Yes, we all knew that it was played and that some
countries held it at high esteem.

Yet is it fair to say that most Scottish Shelley Kerr’s target was for the After scoring a second goal our
football fans didn’t in the main? I Scots to qualify from the group opponents were now throwing
think so, but that thankfully is and make it into the round of 16. everything at us with their
changing. However a similar defeat by Japan tails up. One such attack led to
gave us an uphill struggle to face a desperate tackle from Sophie
The Scotland Women’s Team despite scoring another late goal Howard on Comelti.
qualified for their second major this time from Lana Clelland. The At times like this we all need a
tournament in a row, and their first Scots had to win their final game smile from lady luck. The referee
appearance at The World Cup Finals against Argentina to have any hope consulted with VAR. The referee
which were held in France. What of qualifying in third place. decided it was a penalty. Eventually
an outstanding achievement, and Leading 3-0, through goals by she signalled for the penalty to be
a truly remarkable journey for the Little, Beattie and Cuthbert, we had taken. Alexander saved the penalty.
Women’s game in Scotland from considerable hope that we were The referee then blew her whistle
its humble beginnings where they going to achieve Kerr’s target, to and ordered a re-take citing that
struggled for recognition. the delight of a growing fan base the keeper had moved illegally. This
both in attendance and at home time it was a goal. The Argentine
However you could hear the cheers that they would be getting another team celebrated like they had won
in pubs from St Andrews to Ayr, game in the tournament. the cup.
from Highlands to Borders when
Charlie Emilie potted Scotland’s first Experience is a great weapon at The game re-started and much
goal of the tournament into the net times of adversity and when the sooner than most of us could believe
with minutes to go against England Argentine’s pulled one back, the the referee blew for full time. It was
in the opening game. team seemed to show inexperience all over. One point from the section
We lost 2-1 but acquitted ourselves with no contingency plan B. They games. We were out.
reasonably well against a highly suddenly found themselves up
rated team. against rampant foes.

Photos Colin Robinson Imaging

04

VAR will continue to be questioned
and concerns will will be raised
about the teams inability to hold
out during that final fifteen minutes.
However, this was a fine tournament
from the Scots, whose standing in
the game surely rose.
Scotland’s women have claimed
their right to perform on the world
stage. There is a wind of change
blowing through womens’ role in
‘the beautiful game’ universally, and
the Scots have been a breath of
fresh air for fans looking for a tartan
cheer closer to home.

RECORD BREAKERS
A record breaking crowd of 18,555
fans turned up at Hampden to
watch Scotland’s Women Team
take on Jamaica in an entertaining
3-2 friendly match, which was also
a chance to give the Women’s team
a great send off before heading to
the World Cup Finals. Considering
their previous largest crowd had
been 4,098, this demonstrated how
the women’s team had managed to
capture the hearts of the nation. It
was a very enjoyable game too.

NICOLA STURGEON-SCOTLAND’S FIRST MINISTER
AND OFFICIAL PATRON OF THE SCOTLAND
WOMEN’S NATIONAL TEAM.

Commenting after Scotland’s cruel exit from the World Cup Nicola
said “In recent weeks, we have watched a young talented national
team take us to our first World Cup in 21 years, entertain us with
some brilliant football, score five great goals and, most important of
all, inspire the country and the next generation of wee girls and boys
who dream of pulling on the Scotland shirt.

“Everyone who watched the match (versus Argentina) will have
experienced the rollercoaster emotions and the heartbreak of the
final result. “But you have done Scotland proud and you will be back
stronger than ever in future”

Looking to the future she added
“We will do everything that we can to support the development of
the women’s game.”

05

THE JOURNEY STARTS HERE…..
SAYS WILF PARKINSON
‘WE HAVE THE MANAGER,
WE HAVE THE PLAYERS’

With the exception of Belgium, considerable sums of cash are The players are there. The
all the other teams in Scotland’s now being paid in transfer fees Manager is there. The fans are
Section (Group 1) have dropped to secure their services. With a ready and, and given that the
points, which means the race record transfer fee of £25,000 defeat away to Belgium was
for second place is on. However 000 paid for Kieran Teirney in expected...
Russia must be early favourites August by Arsenal, adding to
to secure the second spot, so the £20,000 000 Sheffield United …the real journey
therefore it is so important for recently paid for Ollie McBurnie, starts here!
Scotland to take points off them the interest is growing in our
without slipping up elsewhere in players from Scotland again.
the campaign. David Bates is now playing with
Sheffield Wednesday on a season
For Scotland it is important to loan from Hamburg whilst Ollie
make good the early set back Burke is back in the West Brom
of the opening match defeat side, both in the championship.
to Kazakhstan. How can this
be done? By everyone getting Scott McKenna was attracting
behind the fans choice of much interest from England
Manager, Steve Clarke, and the before their target window
ever emerging development of closed. However surely the most
talents which are eligible to wear reassuring of all is the form of
the dark blue of Scotland. Scott McTominay at Manchester
United, David Robertson
We now have players who are at Liverpool, Ryan Fraser at
valued so highly by club managers Bournemouth and John McGinn
in England’s premiership, that at Aston Villa, all of whom have
made a great start to the season.
What value can be put on this
group of players in the transfer
market!

er06 Photos Colin Robinson Imaging

STEVE CLARKE Colin Robinson Imaging

In his own words...

On being appointed the new Scotland play and get punished.
boss “But, after that, the team showed
“It is an honour to be appointed Scotland character and resilience. It would have
national head coach and I will undertake been easy for them to feel sorry for
those responsibilities with pride and themselves but they didn’t and I think
commitment,” that bodes well for the future.”
“I am absolutely humbled and honoured
to be in charge of the national team. On losing to Belgium 3-0
I played for Scotland but to manage “Belgium are the best team in the world
Scotland is probably the pinnacle. It’s but we went there with a little bit of hope
a new chapter, a new challenge. And and without the pressure we had versus
anybody who knows me knows that I like Cyprus.”
a challenge. I like to challenge myself. “It was obviously a difficult game for us.
If I was a lazy person I would still be at “I thought their discipline, attitude, the
Chelsea in the assistant manager’s seat. tactical discipline was excellent.
“I firmly believe we have a talented group “I don’t think we deserved to lose that
of players who can achieve success on third goal. I could say the second goal
the international stage and I look forward was offside which might have changed
to working with them and helping them something and obviously conceding the
to fulfill those ambitions. first goal right on half time was a big
blow for us, but I thought we did well to
Discussing players who have retired recover from that.
from the national team “I told them to believe in the structure we
“The door is open to everyone. If players had and not to panic if it went 2-0.
have retired, they have to un-retire “I said if goes 2-0 and we get the chance
themselves” to score it can make it 2-1 and it would be
“If they want to come back to the fold a nervy finish for Belgium.
they have to get in touch with myself or “Unfortunately we fluffed our lines a little
the Scottish FA and say they want to make bit, we had a big chance for 2-1.
themselves available. I won’t be chasing “It is difficult to create chances against
down players who have retired. I only a really good team, but we created the
want players who are 100% committed chance.
to Scotland.” “Probably unfortunate it fell to big Scott
and then the second chance fell to James
On the support from the tartan army and he couldn’t quite get it out of his feet
“We want to make them proud of their to put it in the net.
country and their team,”
“We want them to come to the matches Reflecting on his first two games in
and get right behind the team like they charge of Scotland
always do. “Overall, what I saw over the 10 days is
that I have a really good group of players
On qualifying for the finals who are really committed to their country.
“I appreciate the Scotland supporters They want to get better and improve.
have waited a long time for the national “We were competitive against the best
team to qualify for a major tournament, team in the world, ranked number one,
and it’s my motivation to emulate the so there a lot of positives, but obviously
success of Shelley Kerr and her squad by we are professionals and we don’t like to
leading us to Euro 2020. lose any game”
“I believe we can qualify and look forward
to that journey with the players. On giving Greg Taylor his first cap
versus Belgium
Beating Cyprus 2-1 “His performance for Scotland didn’t
“We knew if we didn’t get maximum surprise me,”
points, the group was almost beyond us,” “I worked with Greg for 18 months at
“It’s difficult for me to be too critical of Kilmarnock and I knew he was ready.
the players after I asked them to give “I thought his performance was excellent
me a win. They gave us three points in a from start to finish.
game that came with big pressure. “It was a big ask for him but I know his
“Lots to work on, for sure, but let’s just temperament, I know his character.
enjoy the win “He showed everyone that he was
“I thought we would be good enough to deserving of his start that he got.”
win the game and we put ourselves in a
good position with a great strike,”
“From there, I thought we had really
good control of the game. I couldn’t
see Cyprus scoring from open play.
Unfortunately, we switch off from a set-

07

QUALIFICATION: WHEN WILL
WE SEE YOUR LIKES AGAIN?
With another European Championship qualifying campaign underway, By Neil Munro
Scotland’s simple goal is to finish in the top two of our six team group to
qualify for next year’s finals. However do we have a realistic chance of
adding a touch of tartan to the finals in 2020 given the mixed results of
our first four games or will another major tournament slip by without
our colourful presence to enhance it?

A calamitous opening game We don’t have the benefit of 2020
loss in Kazakhstan, a laboured vision but the unthinkable outcome
win over San Marino, a late, late would be for ten campaigns where
win against Cyprus and a not we played no part in the finals to
unexpected defeat to Belgium become eleven by this time next
means that, even at this stage, year. Whatever happens, though,
it looks like there would have to being absent from the main event
be a miraculous run of results in every other summer for twenty
the remaining qualifiers to secure years and counting seems way too
an automatic place. Much will long for a country with Scotland’s
depend on the next three fixtures. footballing history. It’s sad that as
Home and away against Russiawith a nation we’re currently missing
Belgium at Hampden sandwiched in out on the euphoria, ecstasy and
between mean that positive results agony that a Scotland appearance
will definitely be needed in those to at a World Cup or European
prolong our campaign. Championships can bring.
One consolation to cling onto is Such appearances have been
that we do have the ‘backstop’ defining moment for some fans
of qualifying through the Nations in life. They nurtured the love for
League play-offs in March 2020 Scotland and for the dark blue of
courtesy of our group win in 2018 our national jersey. Have we just
over Israel and Albania. At the become too accepting of our fate
moment, it’s not clear who we to the extent that qualification is
would face in any play-off but it’s no longer expected?
a welcome wildcard option to fall
back on if needed. Photos Colin Robinson Imaging

er08

You could point to a number of
contributing factors that have led
Scotland to where they are now
– the quality of players we have,
our standard of coaching, our
development of young players,
the way we play the game in
Scotland, poor facilities, the
comparative lack of money in the
Scottish game, children being less
active than they used to be or even
our insistence on playing football
through the winter months in
sometimes difficult conditions.

These might all be valid points women’s teams take the field at
but the main factor that sticks out future World Cups and European
above all others is that Scotland Championships on much more
has stood still as a nation in our regular basis.
footballing outlook whilst many As the Tartan Army often sing…
others have simply overtaken us. “Que sera, sera, whatever will be,
Our teams appear not to be as will be!”
comfortable on the ball as the
opposition. Photos Colin Robinson Imaging

On a brighter note, there are three
positives to cling onto. The first is
the recent appointment of Steve
Clarke as Scotland’s new manager.
If he can spark a transformation
akin to the one he engineered
at Kilmarnock, then we can all
look forward to an upturn in the
national team’s fortunes. The
second is the SFA’s Project Brave
initiative, which runs with the
aim of improving the production
of young football talent across
Scotland. Various versions of the
programme have been operating
since 2012 so we can only hope
that more technically gifted
players will filter through more
regularly into professional clubs
and be given full licence to use
their skills when they do break
through.

The final positive is the noticeable
buzz that our women’s team
generated amongst Scottish
football fans during the current
World Cup in France. True, the
unravelling of their bid to reach
the last sixteen in their final group
game against Argentina was
excruciating to witness.

But, on a positive note they have
now made two major tournaments
in a row and that alone is a joy to
see. We can only hope that their
progress serves as a catalyst for
change to help improve the whole
of Scottish football.
RICmooabloOignifniunsbrgoowntihshthise
to see the dark blue
Scotland men’s and

09

Scotland Under 21’s Here is the full squad: Then it’s on to Tynecastle Park,
There have been five new call- Goalkeepers: Ross Doohan (Ayr which will stage Scotland’s
ups to Scot Gemmill’s Scotland United), Robby McCrorie (Queen European Under-21 Championship
Under-21 squad who host San of the South), Kieran Wright qualifiers against Lithuania and
Marino in Paisley on 5th September (Rangers) Greece later this year.
and then take on Croatia in Sibenik Defenders: Daniel Harvie (Ayr UEFA have confirmed the home
five days later. United), George Johnston of Hearts as the chosen venue
Aberdeen’s Conor McLennan, (Feyenoord), Ross McCrorie for Scotland Under-21s’ Group
Motherwell’s James Scott, Ayr (Portsmouth), Tom McIntyre 4 qualifying ties with Lithuania
United’s Stephen Kelly, Rangers (Reading), Ryan Porteous on October 10 and Greece on
goalkeeper Kieran Wright and (Hibernian), Patrick Reading November 15.
Hamilton’s Lewis Smith are all (Middlesborough) The Lithuania and Greece games
new in the squad. Smith, 19. has Midfielders: Allan Campbell are likely to have a huge bearing
featured six times for his club this (Motherwell), Lewis Ferguson on Scotland’s chances of reaching
season and netted twice. (Aberdeen), Billy Gilmour the 2021 European Under-21
Feyenoord defender George (Chelsea), Jordan Holsgrove Championship finals, which will
Johnston retains his place in the (Reading), Stephen Kelly (Ayr be co-hosted by Hungary and
squad after featuring in March’s United), Kyle Magennis (St Mirren), Slovenia
games against Mexico and Sweden Kyle McAllister (St Mirren), Lewis
while he was still at Liverpool. Smith (Hamilton).
“This is the national team, it should Forwards: Fraser Hornby
be hard to get in the squad,” (Everton), Michael Johnston
Gemmill said. “It hasn’t always (Celtic), Connor McLennan
been like that for the national (Aberdeen), Glenn Middleton
youth teams. (Hibernian), James Scott
“At the same time there are a lot (Motherwell).
of younger ones involved as well.
We have a big responsibility to try
and share the opportunity.”

SCOTTISH FOOTBALL
SUPPORTERS ASSOCIATION

SFSA are a fully independent, not-for-profit organization bringing together
tens of thousands of football fans, individually and collectively, across
Scotland.
What does the SFSA want to achieve? They want to “Reclaim the Game”
for ordinary fans and communities, injecting new energy, ideas, possibilities
and resources into Scottish football by harnessing the talents and views of
supporters.
SFSA are run for and by supporters and believe that Scottish fans have
lacked that powerful, independent voice until now, linked to European
partners and capable of mobilizing for change on a large scale.
71,034 fans have already signed up and you can too free at
www.cottishfsa.org Check them out on facebook and twitter too.

10

WTOITRHULSOSIVAE... by Richard McBrearty
Hampden Park Museum
Scotland’s contribution to the Curator and Football Historian
early development of football in Russia

As Scotland faces up to Russia at football was starting to take hold victim of the Russian Revolution
Hampden Park in a crucial UEFA across large areas of Europe, and died of Typhoid in a Moscow
Euro 2020 qualifying match it may a significant Scottish presence prison in 1919.
come as a surprise that tartan links already existed within the city.
to Russian football stretch back One of the prominent local clubs A little known flax inspector
almost 130 years. Long before within St Petersburg’s thriving from Montrose can also claim
Rangers famously played Moscow football community during this to have played a modest role in
Dynamo at Ibrox Park in 1945 period was the ‘Scottish Circle promoting football in Russia. John
or the Scotland national team of Amateur Footballers’. Many S Urquhart was initially based at
first lined up against the Soviet of the emerging teams were Reval (Tallin) in Estonia in 1910
Union at Hampden Park in 1967, connected to factories and one of and he encouraged football to be
Scottish workers were playing them, Nevka Football Club, was played locally. Urquhart was later
and promoting football inside the formed by a team of Scots linked redeployed to Smolensk, a small
borders of “Mother Russia”. to the Sampson Weaving Mill. The city located on the banks of the
During the late club was named after a prominent Dnieper River, where he continued
nineteenth century to organise and promote football.
the magnificent city local river (The River A final Scottish link to early
port of St Nevka is perhaps more football in Russia is that of
Petersburg, famous for being the place Sir Robert Hamilton Bruce
the jewel in the where Rasputin’s body Lockhart, a diplomat and secret
crown of Imperial was dumped following his agent. Lockhart, the son of a
Russia, was an school headmaster, was born in
important hub for assassination in 1916). By Anstruther, Fife and educated at
Russian football with the turn of the twentieth Fettes College in Edinburgh. He
people connected century a local league was would go on to join the British
to Scotlad playing a up and running and Nevka Foreign Service and in 1912 was
prominent role. Football Club were the posted to Moscow as Vice Consul.
The role of St Petersburg The young diplomat arrived with
as an early footballing centre is inaugural winners of the a reputation for being a great
perhaps not surprising as the St Petersburg League footballer and was invited to play
city was a major trading port Championship in 1901. for Morozov Football Club, a textile
with access to the Baltic Sea. When it comes to the early factory team based in the outskirts
Nicknamed the “Window to the organisation and expansion of of Moscow. Whilst his reputation
West”, St Petersburg enjoyed a football in St Petersburg prior was somewhat misplaced (his
flow of trade with other countries to the First World War one brother John was in fact the great
and was influenced by wider name stands out; that of Arthur sportsman of the family and played
European architecture and culture. Davidovich MacPherson. The St rugby football at international level
Scottish links to the city can be Petersburg born merchant hailed for Scotland) R.H. Lockhart would be
traced back to its very foundation from a family of Glaswegian part of the Morozov team which won
under Peter the Great in 1703. By shipyard owners and played a the Moscow League Championship
the 1890s skilled workers were prominent role in local sporting in 1912.
flocking to the Russian port to circles. MacPherson was chairman
live and work and, at a time when of the St Petersburg Football 11
League on two occasions and
would also become the first
President of the Russian Football
Union when that body was

established in 1912.
He was the founder
and first president of
the All Russia Union
of Lawn Tennis Clubs
and served on the
Russian Olympic
Committee. Sadly
Macpherson was a

STPHOETTLAIGRTHATNOANRMY
MEET THE NITHSDALE
TARTAN ARMY SANQUHAR

NTAS are based in the Burgh invasion, which is to Cyprus in November. 90 year old footsoldier
of Sanquhar, which, if you don’t Tam Bennet
know your Geography is in in the Various charities have benefitted from the
South West of Scotland! many events they run throughout the year,
which raises money for local charity’s and
NTAS were started up by the organisation’s.
two Moore boys “Bobby” and
“Waddy” about 25 years ago NTAS always make sure they make at least
who named the club after the one away trip every year, and what a trip
local football team Nithsdale they ensure it always is, win lose or draw.
Amateurs (which is now So when you hear the noise of the tartan
Nithsdale Wanderers) who, at army boys….NTAS will be coming down
that time had a few tartan army the road!
footsoldiers playing for them.

NTAS have been on many away
journeys with the first being
Wembley 1987

NTAS has built up to about 50 Founders Waddy & Bobby at WC France 1998
footsoldiers with the likes of
committee members “ “90 year
old Tam Bennet, Parky, Mintie,
Lub, Wee Blaw, Danny Chow,
Wee Billy, Niv, Geo, Jambo, Wee
Jambo, Papa Jambo, Parrot,
Tubby, Moorzo, Stanky, Wee
Stanky, Pat, Bronc, Jas The Yank,
Tomi snr, Shine and Wee Tomi
the club mascot” who have all
joined in over the years and are
still going to this day. They are
currently preparing for their next

12

Nithsdale Amateur’s 1987

13

HAVING YOUR SAY!

AS FOOTBALL WITHOUT THE FANS IS NOTHING

COULD VAR BE RUINING THE BEAUTIFUL GAME?
We asked the question on our facebook page after
Scotland Women’s Team crashed out of the World Cup Finals.

Beyloouwsiasidw.h..at

Danny Allan Goal line technology is John Bleasdale It needs to be slicker. The Colin Trail Really felt for the team. They
fine. VAR takes too long if a teams got amount of time taken to give the penalty have been harshly treated in all of their
momentum it’s gone. Dump this garbage in the Argentina game was farcical. That games and taken the decisions against
now because its still down to human said, we only have ourselves to blame for them with incredible dignity. I for one
interpretation. Is three opinions not blowing it. wouldn’t have been so approachable in
enough? Ron Mcpherson Best thing to happen in the post match interview. Well done all
Neil Henderson VAR should be referred football, stops big teams getting dodgy for a great effort.
to by the Ref or team captains, 1/2 each. decisions Iain Smith Great idea being poorly used.
No secondary refereeing for me. David Nivison Why not just have the Needs to be quicker and more consistent.
Paul Mcca llum Anything that can improve referee sitting watching the VAR instead G ary To dd Killing football it’s just a
the game and cut out some of the cheating of running around the pitch lol gimmick for the non aligned casual TV
and diving must be a good thing. Danny Allan Goal line tec fine.var takes viewers.
James Pe ters If th e women’s world cup too long if a teams got momentum its Gordon Russell Fantastic 90 mins by
was an example, Forget it. it was dreadful, gone.dump this garbage now cos its still Jockettes, but I’m afraid tactical naivety
I remember France getting awarded a down ti human interpretation is three cost us, 3-0 up, shut the door!!
penalty, but they somehow did not see opinions not enough grrrrrrrr. However Girls gave their all & made us
the double foot tackle from the defender Patrick Mc VAR should only be used proud. Superb support via Tartan Army.
that was meant to be fouled, Scotland when the referee is undecided and asks
penalties were disgraceful decisions as for it. Someone else intervening and Iain Barker They used VAR in the men’s
the defender took a dive. Thought this asking the ref too view VAR suggests World Cup in Russia and it generally
was to prevent cheating, stopping the to the ref they’ve made a mistake and worked well. It was actually a good
game well after the incident, just dreadful theirs then pressure on them too give the World Cup to watch generally. This
to watch. decision though is an absolute joke. It started in
Mag Roy I’ve watched a few other the England game where Ref pandered
games over the days and some of the to certain English players. The VAR in this
refs are making it all about them, but to World Cup has been a disaster and it has
be fair Scotland had a 3-0 lead, I don’t resulted in more than one women’s team
know how they will get over this, but being knocked out early.
there’s always the next tournament to Steven Latimer If it is a yellow for the
look forward to. Argentina had no team keeper coming off the line then I can
or coach three years ago, from what I saw see a lot more penalty takers feigning
last night (apart from going in with stud’s the spot kick to get movement from
up) they are future contenders for finals the goalie to get them booked. Bin it
and get back to basics. That kick would
never have been retaken under normal
circumstances and the handball against

14

Scotland in the earlier game would most Neil Hazlett What should have happened contact with the ball and nothing is
likely have been ignored as well. You even was VAR told ref how much time to be given, think there has been a large brown
had the Argentinian players whipping up added plus seems if decision for Scotland envelope slide under the refs door!
their fans to influence the ref when she VAR isn’t needed F raser S eath VAR the latest step in
was watching the re run. Dougie Burnett All English premiership destroying the game as we knew it
Dennis Garden We need to get either games will finish after 5 because of VAR Garry Ewing I was for VAR before the
honest or proper Refs. penalties will be taken at least 3 times women’s world cup but from what I’ve
Allan Lyons VAR is not the problem. It’s William Macdonald Last night was hard seen, I am now totally against it now.
the rules that’s the problem. They have to take, ref gets pulled by VAR after she Goal line technology yes, but not VAR.
got all the VAR decisions correct. The ruled ok, pen ordered retaken for? One Stopping the clock every time there is a
stoppage time is a real problem. That was minute added on when 9 taken, then stoppage would cut out things like last
awful. But VAR itself is fine. The human there’s 2 pens that should’ve been given night’s farce.
beings operating it could be better. But that VAR never bothered with and never Eddie Bruce Yes, it’s ruining our game
the ridiculous over pedantic enforcing of hardly mentioned, it’s lost all credibility! Charles Docherty I am against the use of
the ridiculous rules is the problem. I ain MacK enzie It’s fast enough in rugby, all technology in football. Football to me
James Forrester Clock should be I think the problem is that particular is a game between two teams of eleven
stopped while waiting for a decision to be version of VAR is slow. humans officiated by humans also on the
made! They seem to manage it in Rugby? Jim Semple It’s the ridiculous new rules same football pitch not by people sitting
Brian Frang Coineagan Wrong decisions brought in by FIFA that are spoiling the in a locked room miles away watching
are part of the game we’ve dealt with it game ie the goalie rule, they then have to televisions. How long will it be before
for over a hundred years, get rid of this use VAR to enforce the rules. they eliminate match officials altogether?
rubbish technology. If there wasn’t as Paul Thom as VAR is ruining football. And Scott Meldrum Said from the very start
much money in football nowadays VAR personally will be the death of football to VAR was bad for the game.i was against
wouldn’t even be a thing. people over a certain age. it from the start
Stephen Smith VAR is going to ruin Norman Graham The referee waved play James Tulloch It’s ruining the free
the game of football and turn it into on, VAR is useless and killing our game. flowing of the game got bored watching
equivalent of American Soccer RIP Surely the referee has final decision. This champions league stop start for var.
Jonathan Haydock I was against VAR is not a world Cup, its owned by VAR. I going by the letter of the law if a goalie
from the start, it will kill the game, if it agree with goal line technology but the moves it’s retaken if they don’t score but
carries on, I’ll start watching the amateur, new law for hand ball is embarrassing and it’s ok to move if the other team scores
and cancel any subscription to any VAR is not consistent enough. Shocking surely that must be retaken as well
football/sport channel decisions getting made and costing Shaun Allan I think get rid of VAR. Keep if
Janette Sneddon Totally spoiling it. teams big. Gutted for Scotland. VAR ball crosses over line technology
Beth Bur ns In theory it should be good should only apply for goal line and referee Scott Sherman champions league final
for the game and ensure that the right takes control. Its embarrassing and the and world cup spring to mind...2 out of
decisions are made. In practice, it isn’t tournament is going to be decided on 3 officials make a decision on pitch then
working. VAR which is totally wrong. 2 out of 3 make a decision using VAR,
John Wo ods They need to learn from Ian John ston Argentinian shoots, Scot it’s total nonsense, get rid of it or get rid
rugby & cricket. Do it well, do it openly, saves but ruled out because she came of assistant refs as we don’t need them
put it on the big screens, let the fans off the line! Shot retaken, Goalie again now, another 3 wages for clubs that can
know what is being questioned by miking comes of line, ball in net -GOAL! Surely ill afford them
up the officials, let us know who is making if it was illegal the first attempt, it was the
the decision, and speed it up. Simples. second time also??
Neil Hod ge It is an utter shambles. Ewan McLeod The penalty given to
Spoiling games. Inconsistent use some Japan was ridiculous! That said it’s a
blatantly wrong decisions. And a sudden complicated situation to sort!
stop to the game had everyone confused Gavin Graham The thing is if the
Alisdaire James-Fergus Le Bugle They goalkeeper moves before the penalty
were totally robbed on 2 games two they get a yellow card, and the penalty
penalties forget against Japan and this is retaken, yet the 2nd penalty the
action to night. Normally this morning goalkeeper moved again (not as far),so
Scotland is 2nd of her group with 6pts should that penalty be taken for a 3rd
and +1 at goal-average then qualified. time,and why was the time not added on
at the end, Also Scottish players booked
for stopping the play, yet an Argentinian
player slides in from behind makes no

15

16

17

By Leah

TARTAN Farrer
ARMY
CHILDREN’S
CHARITY

For those of you who don’t know who or what Tartan Army Children’s
Charity (TACC) is – it’s aim is to bring a little bit of happiness to
disadvantaged children in Scotland or where our National Team
plays overseas. It is 100% run by volunteers, so every penny raised by,
or donated to them, goes directly towards charitable activities.

On behalf of Scotland football supporters, TACC develops and financially supports educational,
recreational, health and wellbeing related children’s projects in not only in Scotland   but also in the
countries where the national team plays.  

MY FIRST top, a saltire to wave and a £10 Coming up these next couple
SCOTLAND MATCH to spend on whatever they like of months we will have groups
when they are at the stadium. attending a ‘My First Scotland
One of our most popular Since inception in 2008, the Match’ from all over Scotland
projects is the ‘My First Scotland programme has enabled over - watching the Under 21’s at
Match’ programme.  TACC send 750 children to attend their first Paisley, SWNT v Cyprus at Easter
groups of children/ families international match and this year Road and of course Scotland as
who would normally never get we’ll surpass the 800 mark. they take on Russia and Belgium
the opportunity to attend a live at Hampden. 
football match to watch either We were able to double the
the Men’s A Team, Women’s annual attendees, and wider The feedback we receive from
Team (SWNT) or men’s Under geographical reach of the parents/ group leaders about the
21’s.  programme, by including the children’s experience is always
SWNT and Under 21’s to the very positive with most having
With the support of Scotland programme in late 2015, with had a thoroughly enjoyable
Supporters Club every child that approx. 120-150 attending each night regardless of whatever the
attends receives a match ticket, year from all over the country. final score may be.
whilst TACC provides a Scotland

If you know some kids
who don’t get the same
chance or opportunity
as others might then
‘Our My First Scotland
Match’ programme can
provide a memorable
experience that can last a
lifetime.  If you would like
more information please
contact:

Leah@
tartanarmychildrens
charity.org.uk

18

AWAY DONATIONS involved. Unfortunately for out, and post match refreshments
SWNT the World Cup journey and food.
Over the summer whilst the men didn’t quite go as hoped, but we All in a football lovers dream.
took on Belgium, TACC donated are still incredibly proud of them Places were available to buy for
£5,000 to ‘KIDS CARE’ in Brussels. all and hope they realise just £350 or the opportunity was also
KIDS CARE are developing a how much they have inspired a there to enter a raffle for £10 and
sensory garden adjacent to generation of young and old to win a place. Over £5,000 was
the Queen Fabiola Children’s get involved in football.  raised and was divided equally
Hospital. Research has shown between TACC and Children 1st.
that this will be significantly HAMPDEN CHARITY With many people describing
therapeutic for the children who CHALLENGE it as a wee boys dream coming
are treated at the hospital for true to play at Hampden. Many
just about all physical, medical Whilst some of us were enjoying thanks for all who took part.
and mental conditions. We look the sunshine in France others were
forward to sharing some photos hard at work at Hampden.  We Keep up to date
of the project soon.  were very fortunate that The SFA with the TACC
supported us and ‘Children 1st’ activities through
Due to SWNT making it to in a Hampden Charity Challenge their website at
France for the Women’s on Friday 14th June.  www tartanarmy
World Cup TACC decided to childrenscharity.org.uk
mark this special occasion by The Player Package Included  the and also on their
making our first SWNT away following: playing on Hampden Facebook page.
donation. On Friday June 14th, pitch for 45 minutes, full Scotland
when SWNT took on Japan in kit to keep and a medal, use
Rennes TACC made a donation of Hampden changing rooms,
of £5,000 to Breizh Insertion coached by Craig Brown / Archie
Sport; a group who support Knox, a post-match penalty shoot
and engage with challenged
communities throughout the city
of Rennes through the medium
of sport.  Our donation enabled
them to reach out to young girls
in such communities.

On the day of the match with
all the Scotland supporters in
attendance, the girls played a
7-a-side football competition,
wearing the colours of Scotland
and Japan. It really was a great
day for TACC and wonderful to
see all the young girls getting

19

OLIVER BURKE ON HIS WOMEN’S
LATE WINNING GOAL WORLD CUP
VERSUS CYPRUS IN SCOTLAND

“To get my first Scotland goal Scotland may
was incredible. It’s my favourite not have won the
goal now, right up there with World Cup, but
anything I’ll cherish. It’s one for they got close to
the gallery. We’re all excited it when it arrived
now because we have important at Edinburgh
games at home and we hope Castle as part of its
we’ll get big crowds that could world tour around
really push us over the line.” the nations who
qualified.
ANDY ROBERTSON
ON THE NEW BOSS Hopefully it will be back one day for a longer stay!

“I’m excited. It’s a fresh start. BOBBY LENNOX
“The performances haven’t been good
enough and, obviously, the players all know Pictured here is Scotland
that has been the case. fan Wilma Lambie visiting
the statue of Bobby Lennox
“Of course, a manager can make a difference, in Ayrshire. Situated in
but it’s also up to players to put that attitude Saltcoats, the statue was
in, show up and be 100 per cent in trying to the result of two years of
create a club atmosphere within Scotland. fundraising to honour the
Scotland legend.
“That’s what we need to do and, hopefully, Bobby won 10 international
this is the start of it’” caps for Scotland. He scored
one of the goals in the
GOOD LUCK TO KIERAN TIERNEY famous victory over the then
AS HE MOVES SOUTH reigning World Cup holders
England at Wembley in
Although a very sad loss to our league 1967, England’s first defeat
game in Scotland, Kieran Tierney’s 25 since winning the trophy.
million pound move to Arsenal ensures he Sculptor is John McKenna.
will be playing against quality opponents
on a regular basis, which hopefully benefits BELATED CAPS
the national team going forward. Good luck
in your new adventure. The SFA only began giving caps to women after taking
over the women’s game in 1998. However in a nice,
CLASSIC however belated touch, the SFA finally gave players and
PICS manager

Not many kilts Elsie Cook, from
but plenty of the first-ever
tartan! Scotland women’s
Pictured national team, their
here are long-awaited caps.
‘The Sunny The honour came
Leith Tartan almost 50 years after the squad’s 3-2 defeat to the Auld
Army’ Enemy at Greenock’s Ravenscraig Stadium.

MALKY MCCORMICK DIES AGED 76

We were very saddened to hear of Malky’s death earlier this year. Malky
was a legend, and he kindly created a cartoon, ‘Gary of the Glen’ for our
magazine, however more famously he created two magnificent mascots
for Scotland in the World Cup Finals. Malky was a well-known Scottish
cartoonist, comic’s artist, postcard artist and caricaturist, and amongst the
many other cartoons he created he is fondly remembered for his cartoon
strip about him and Billy Connelly. It was his close friendship with Billy that
propelled Malky to prominence in 1973 as the banjo-playing pals created a
comic strip ‘The Big Yin’ which documented the funny side of Scottish life.
It not only launched Malky’s artistic career but also, in turn, gave Sir Billy the
nickname that has stuck to this day.

20

SHELLEY KERR

In her own words...

On her MBE award prior to leading “Professionalism has only happened in “For 70 minutes we played well. The
Scotland to their debut at a FIFA the last few years so it’s small steps to try bottom line is we conceded three goals
World Cup and bridge the gap. but the first goal is from a free-kick; that
“It’s not often I’m lost for words but I “Do I think that all players should be paid changes the whole complexion of the
was speechless when I found out I had the same? I think it depends on what game.
been awarded an MBE and was really nation they are playing for. “Some of the decisions were appalling to
surprised. “It’s a tremendous honour and “It’s difficult to predict what’s going to say the least. It doesn’t take away the fact
one I’m immensely proud of. happen in the future. I used to pay to play we were comfortable in the game and
“I’ve always been brought up with good the game so, for me, it’s exciting to see conceded three goals but there is a ball on
values and being a team player. It’s times players at the top level can earn a living. the pitch, we try and make a substitution
like these that I look back and think about “I think [equal pay] is a long way off but I’m and it’s just an absolute farce.”
everyone who has helped me. delighted to see that the gap is closing.” “People will argue you can’t concede
“As a wee girl I had a passion for football three goals but it does put you under
and I’ve developed over the years but On the opening World Cup match pressure when you concede the first one”
I’ve always wanted to give something versus England and the penalty “We didn’t deal with the ball around the
back to the game.  decision edge of the box with the second one and
“To be recognised for that gives me a “We have grown, matured and obviously the third is a penalty.
real sense of pride. developed as a team to qualify” “I can’t really say any more about the
“I would say the award is more about “I’ve watched the penalty back and I decisions. We have been a victim of them
other people than it is about me. The thought it was a bit harsh, but the rules every game. However we still have to do
players have created a huge amount of are the rules” better and see the game out.
profile for the women’s national team off “What I want to do is applaud the players
the back of their performances on the for the second-half display.” On how far women’s football has come
park and they deserve a huge amount of “I don’t think we played particularly well in “I am extremely proud of the heritage
credit for that. the first half, but I’ve got to give England attached to the women’s game in
“I’ve worked in the development side credit, they played with intensity and put Scotland. There was a lot of difficult times
of the game and there’s been so many us under pressure in the right areas and in the past, when there was no formal
people who have supported me as a got their two goals. infrastructure in place, so to be involved
individual and it’s down to them I’ve “I think we came out in the second half and in qualifying for the World Cup for the first
been recognised. we showed what we were capable of.” time, doesn’t get any better. It is great to
“My family have sacrificed so much to “They are ranked third in the world for a see the strides made in women’s football,
support me and this award is for them as reason and there is no doubt they are a and although I think we still have got a bit
much as it is for me.” formidable team, and we couldn’t play to go, it is evolving all the time”
the expansive game as we have done
On the record 18,555 crowd who previously against other teams. Tartan Army
turned up at Hampden for match “The penalty probably dented our The tartan army have been absolutely
versus Jamaica confidence a wee bit, but all credit to the fantastic with their support to the
“The first 15 minutes, the players found players, they regrouped after half time women’s team
it tough, maybe with the big crowd, the and that’s what they’ve done throughout
big arena. That’s why we wanted to play the campaign.” Colin Robinson
on a stage like this. On the narrow loss to Japan Imaging
“Overall, we dominated but we need “We critique ourselves all the time, and
to eradicate the errors. That’s going to for this game we tried to combat their
be important against the bigger teams. movement. It worked in spells in the
There were a lot of good things in the game and not in other spells and a little
game but a lot of things we need to adjustment here and there helps because
improve on.” Japan’s movement was so incredible.
“We’ve already captivated the nation
by qualifying, but it’s the legacy part. “I will definitely reflect on this game. We
We don’t want this to be an isolated made some errors in the first half, but I
incident,” thought our game plan was working
“We want to professionalise and grow really well.”
the game and success would change the “In both games, we started well, but
whole landscape of the women’s game the mid-point in the game in the first
in Scotland.” half is really where it hurt us and that’s
something that we need to rectify.”
Discussing the disparity in pay and Discussing the draw with Argentina
prize money - £24m compared to that ended the Women’s World Cup
£315m for the men’s equivalent last “I’m gutted for the players, gutted for
year - as examples of how Fifa is not the support, but the officiating was really,
taking the women’s game seriously. really poor”
“We need to be mindful that the game is
still evolving”

21

MFAICNRSOWPIHTOHNES

In our second feature on the men and women behind
the mics, we catch up with Sky Sports, Luke Shanley

From reading this feature in the 12 year old. I recall an English woman The Euro 2008 campaign probably
previous edition, it is easy to be jealous getting on at Newcastle station and best sums up the highs and lows
of Chic Young, a man who has timed was confronted with signing and dance of watching Scotland. There was
his run perfectly, getting to watch and she didn’t realise what she was an excitement going to games and
good Scotland teams and getting to getting herself into but in fairness, she the anticipation got greater as the
cover major tournaments we actually was offered a drink and got involved. If campaign progressed. You wanted
took part in! I, on the other hand, have you can’t beat them, join them! Scotland to be your club team so you
attended one Scotland game in a major The atmosphere, the banter between could go every week. Beating France
tournament and covered us winning the fans and the whole experience was at home was unbelievable with the
the Qatar Airways Cup at Easter Road. something else and the game ended
The love affair always starts somewhere 0-0! Andy Goram played well but John tPfisaeavanromiosuorwittvheaeesrmyereexhmamagdoagrrykebaruaabtstlieota.onSIttcbooertaseRlaatmIonymtadbwhianieCfensgamosnhimno.laiigdInnnyt
though. I do recall watching games in Collins made the best save of the day
Euro 92 on TV with my parents but with the handball on the line that VAR at least half the crowd that night but
it wasn’t until we played Greece at would not let him away with today. the march to the stadium will live with
Hampden Park in 1995 that I got to Little did I know that would be my one me forever. Would we allow thousands
watch the team in the flesh. That was and only time attending a Scotland of foreign football fans to be marched
thanks to free school tickets. It seemed game in the flesh at a tournament. I
a great adventure for the class to had school exams during France 98 and
head to the game on a school night. couldn’t go. I now know what my Uncles
Ally McCoist’s late goal that night meant when they said they had to go to
effectively got us to Euro 96. It started France just in case. They were in their
my passion with the national team and mid-30s then something I am now.
should be a reminder that we need I have been a Scotland regular since
to get young fans into international 2002 and SSC member since 2004, all
football and watching Scotland. during the Berti Vogts era and somehow
My only game watching Scotland in it didn’t put me off. There were plenty
tournament football was at Villa Park of lows and then some false dawns like
against Netherlands in Euro 96. It was the Netherlands playoff game. I recall
some experience. My Dad and I got crashing my car on the way back from
the train from Edinburgh Waverley. the Germany game in 2003 but nothing
That was an eye opener! Travelling would stop me watching Scotland.
with the Tartan Army was such fun as a

22

player, and having played in three
World Cups, proves how good he was.
There have still been moments of being
able to be a fan like going to Wembley
in 2013 and 2016. It was only then that
I realised what I missed out on in the
halcyon days. Hungary was the last
game I went to with my Dad and my
Uncle. They keep threatening to retire
from international duty but they can’t
give it up.
Another uncle of mine travelled from
his home in Jersey in 2001 to watch
Scotland in Brussels. He stayed in
Bruges that night, met a girl and
never came back. I now have two
Belgian cousins, the power of following
Scotland! It is fair to say that they have
won the international football lottery
getting to support one of the best
teams in the World, all because their
Dad watched Scotland fail to qualify for
the 2002 World Cup.

to the stadium in either Glasgow or Graeme Souness ribbing him all the My only game watching Scotland in a
Edinburgh and shut down the city in way home. We won an RTS Scotland tournament took place in England, just
rush hour? The French showed their award for our coverage that day, which a train journey away and no need for
class after the game. My uncle and I I am proud of. the passport. That found me dreaming
walked into a pub in our colours and Visiting places like Israel, Albania, of going to Germany, South Africa,
were given a standing ovation. The Kazakhstan and San Marino in recent Switzerland/Austria, Brazil and France.
pride and realisation of what we did times has given me the opportunity to I now find myself getting desperate.
hit home but it wasn’t to be in terms explore different places, something I I live in Glasgow, I don’t care about
of qualification. The Ukraine game that am grateful for. Getting to interview our the glamour anymore, I will happily
followed was nearly every bit as good top players is great, usually not always jump on the bus from the West End to
but despite dominating the World in the best of circumstances when you Hampden next summer just to see us
Champions Italy for 70 minutes, the way have to deal with their emotions as back in a major tournament.
that game ended probably sums being much as yours. Luke was speaking to Iain Emerson
a Scotland fan. I am not ashamed to say I was at Hampden Park the day Andrew
I cried my eyes out at Hampden that Robertson scored his first goal in the 23
night. The drink probably contributed. stadium for Queen’s Park against Elgin
From there my career started to take City in December 2012, to see him
off, firstly on radio and then with Sky now as our leader and scoring again,
Sports. That has allowed me to cover this time as captain of Scotland, against
games and report on the national team Cyprus was great. Getting to know
up close. It is something I don’t take for Bobby Brown, the manager that led
granted. I had to work my way up as a us to that win at Wembley in 1967 has
journalist and broadcaster to becoming been great. What a lovely man and at
the trackside reporter. My ‘first cap’ 95, he still gets to games and knows
trackside was at Easter Road against his football. Another goalkeeper, Jim
Qatar. We did win a trophy that night Leighton, was my hero. He was fantastic
and as an Edinburgh boy it was great. in that game against Sweden at Ibrox in
Gordon Strachan always kept me on 1996 when we won 1-0. I used to try my
my toes but I loved the challenge. We hand in goal and I looked up to him.
got on quite well and I always felt I got With 91 caps, our second most capped
more out of him. He made you think
and I enjoyed that, to a point!
Getting the balance between being a
fan and being professional covering a
game can be tough, none more so than
the game against England at Hampden.
From totally losing myself and jumping
about with PA announcer Graeme
Easton when Leigh Griffiths scored the
second to the disappointment of the
equaliser then having to composing
myself interviewing Griffiths post-
match, neither of us knew what to
say. My colleague Geoff Shreeves was
covering England while I was doing the
Scotland interviews, his relief was not at
the result but not having to put up with

OFFICIALLY LICENSED Summera Shaheen MBE
SCOTLAND COLLECTION Global Ambassador

Our officially Licensed Scotland Collection, as worn Glasgow the Caring City
here by Scott Brown and Charlie Mulgrew is on sale at
(Charity No SC029090). (Voluntary)
discounted prices to Scotland Supporters Club,
through the Famous Tartan Army Magazine and International Brand and
Trade Ambassador Scottish
can be found on line
Chamber of Commerce
Summera Shaheen MBE , runs The Diamond Studio, which is an award
winning Scottish independent business that opened its doors in October (Voluntary)
2006. They specialise in custom made bespoke jewellery in quality metals
and work with ethically sourced gemstones and diamonds.
  In 2007 the door to the world of football opened. From Sponsoring
YPOYA at Celtic FC, followed by the Paradise Windfall, supporting
the Celtic and Rangers Charity Foundations, the involvement and
commitment grew.
Summera explains “With our love for the beautiful game, we feel it was
meant to be. As we got more drawn in, football and all that it does in sport,
for community, charity and humanity, we fell in love even deeper.
  “We designed, manufactured and launched the world’s first jewellery
collection with a footballer in November 2009 ‘The DaMarcus Collection’
with USA player DaMarcus Beasley.
“Official collections followed with Clubs from Aberdeen FC to Fulham,
the Scotland National Team, and Irish FA. The first collections for fans
also offers custom made pieces featuring the official crest.
“Like football we have experienced good and bad seasons, faced relegation,
injury but have held on and proud to have earned our place in the football
family and feel so blessed to be part of it.
“The people we have met on our journey is what has made it worthwhile.
From creating Cufflinks for the Late Kofi Annan to a Diamond Dog Tag
for George Clooney’s dog, to the brilliant wee stories from our lovely
clients many now friends, appreciating the beauty of Scotland on the
train up to see our lovely friends at Pittodrie, to being in the thick of it
promoting at games.
“After 12 years the Company is evolving, we look forward to sharing with
you and we are excited to see where the journey takes us.
“But what is set in stone is we remain part of our football family and
committed to all that it is now and always“.

my motto
 ‘People are like diamonds, each one is unique, created equal,
coming in different colours and sizes, many have had tougher
starts than others, some tossed aside, but take a moment to
look closer and you will find a sparkle in every single one.
#Everydiamonddeservestoshinebright

WWW.THEDIAMONDSTUDIO.CO.UK
141 248 2389 | 07801 375 775

[email protected]