Dec2022

DEDICATED TO THE SCOTTISH NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM & SUPPORTERS When Elsie Met Pelé

Est 2005 Elsie Cook tells her story

Archie Macpherson
Fans with microphones

George Young
Scotland’s roll of honour

Euro adventure awaits
the tartan army
Chick Young
And lots more…
2022_ISSUE 4

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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 previous issues of ‘Famous Tartan
Army Magazine’ free of charge at our website, which is at
www.tartanarmymagazine.com
In previous issues you will find Steve Clarke and Shelley Kerr speaking ‘in
their own words’, read the Tartan Army’s favourite singer Ted Christopher
interview, read the facebook feedback comments on VAR,
Sky Sports presenter Luke Shanley’s love affair with Scotland,
Richard McBrearty column, read the views of Scottish Football
Supports Association, Wilf Parkinson, John Bleasdale, and s
ee 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 BY IAIN EMERSON

Scotland’s Swedish Adventure –

The story of Scotland’s European
Championship debut.

This book by John Bleasdale finally puts right one of Scotland’s wrongs, and that is
the almost forgotten story of Scotland’s great achievement in qualifying and
participating in the Euros in 1992. It was the ninth UEFA European Championship,
and Scotland’s first time qualifying for them, however for some reason the media
has on the whole, tended to overlook this campaign.

This may have been because when 1992 came along it was on the back of Scotland
having qualified for a remarkable five World Cups in a row from 1974 to 1990.
Looking back at that era we now know how spoiled we were. For me personally,
I can remember all the World Cup campaigns like it was yesterday, however perhaps
because we hadn’t previously qualified the European Championship this didn’t
seem nearly as important to me at the time.

Thankfully Johns book has put all this right with some amazing detail in telling this
story. I’m sure even if you do remember this campaign well you’ll find detail in this
book that you didn’t know. It captures it all with tales from the management team,
players who participated and the fans who travelled. The tale takes you back to a
time when two points were awarded for a win, Yugoslavia had come to an end, the dissolved
Soviet Union competed as the CIS, a reunified Germany had replaced the East and West German
teams, and when Pat Nevin appeared in a Hollywood movie …So I Married an Axe Murderer starring
Mike Myers!

I could go on but that would spoil it for you, the best thing to do is read the book and take yourself
back in time to when the likes of Goram, Gough and McStay were strutting their stuff.

Author John Bleasdale

A must read? Yes definitely, and I’m already looking forward to further books from John.
Star rating Five stars out of five

Book available at Pitch Publishing and Amazon in hardback RRP £16.99

02

CONTENTS December 2022

4–6 Euro 2024 Qualifiers Travel Guide 18 Turkey vs Scotland Friendly Match Front cover photo by www.robinson.com
19 Steve Clarke In His Own Words
8–9 Scotland Women’s National Team 20 The Chick Young Column
22–23 Fans with Microphones (Archie MacPherson)
10–13 George Young – Roll of Honour 24 Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal

14–16 Elsie Cook
17 Scottish FA marks 150 years
since first internationasl game

Welcome to the 2022, issue 4, edition of Famous Tartan Army Magazine
We hope you are all enjoying the World Cup, well, as much as you can without our beloved national team being there.

Having watched many of the games so far, I definitely think we are good enough to be competing at the top table,
and I think Steve Clarke is the best man to take us forward. Progress has been made, we have gone on several unbeaten
runs under the boss, and qualifying for The Euros got that monkey off our backs, as he was getting pretty heavy! We
continue to Keep The Faith.

A huge thank you to all who read our magazine, and especially to our editorial team whose enthusiasm never drops
even when the results on the field don’t always go our way. Hopefully everyone will enjoy the festivities, and we will
be back in the New Year ready to go again.

All the best
Iain Emerson
Editor

If you wish to contribute in any way please get in touch:
Browse: www.tartanarmymagazine.com
Email: [email protected]
Call: 07725 502 465
Visit our facebook and Twitter
‘Famous Tartan Army Magazine’

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

EURO 2024 QUALIFIERS

THE TRAVELLING TARTAN ARMY
TOUR GUIDE 2023 BY HAZEL GUILDER

It has been a challenging two years for draws in tournaments and this one was NORWAY
football and for our Tartan Army fans no different.
given pandemic lockdowns with limited We now face a prodigious undertaking Land of the Fjords, Aquavit and
travel and attendance at international after being drawn in Group A facing Edvard Munch…...
matches. the likes of Samson and Goliath that Firstly, let us talk about the Norwegian
Nevertheless, it has been an exciting are Spain and Norway as well as the elephant in the room. I know some
two years for the Tartan Army given usual potential banana skins of the past of you are reading this and maybe
that our recent squad finally got a such as Georgia and Cyprus in 2023. thinking the same as me, the formidable
rousing encore after their 22-year All of the Tartan Army fans, including the Haaland, right? North of Scotland is our
absence from the world football stage. whole Scotland squad, want to secure North Sea neighbour Norway, home of
We emotionally qualified for the our place at the Euro finals in Germany one Norwegian Viking named Erling
delayed Euro 2020, after our win in in 2024, after all, it is an easy country to Haaland.
Belgrade back in November 2020 from get to as well as travel around with the At the time of writing this, Haaland has
Marsh’s memorable penalty save from usual German efficiencies in place. scored 18 goals across 13 matches for
Mitrovic. The Germans are passionate about his current club Manchester City and
On Sunday 9th October 2022, Tartan football, and we want to be part of will prove more than a handful for our
Army fans across the globe anxiously their party atmosphere with plenty of usual defence.
learned Scotland’s football fate as the German techno music, biere, bratwurst What we do have is a wealth of EPL
highly anticipated draw for UEFA Euro and brezeln however to secure our experience across the squad and those
2024 qualifying finally took place in place to Deutschland, we have a players have good insight of playing
Frankfurt. monumental mountain to ascend. regular club football against Haaland
Fingers, toes and legs were crossed With that in mind, let us touch on so they should be able to anticipate his
during the draw with all eyes on Steve some of the football statistics in those manoeuvres on the pitch.
Clarke’s reaction to the nations pulled countries as well as their stars who Haaland will also be joined by Arsenal
out of the bowl against Scotland in pot we will probably encounter. Let me captain Martin Odegaard who has
two of the draw. offer some brief travel guides to those scored 6 goals in 13 matches and a
I have to say, as a long-standing Tartan travelling Tartan Army fans and what is fellow teammate of our KT. Some of
Army supporter, that it is typically the on offer in those European cities next us, who have Odegaard in our Fantasy
Scotland way when it comes to our year. Football team, is known for providing
several goal assists or poaching around
04 the goal mouth. We cannot afford to
take our eyes off Odegaard and must
be marked otherwise we know it will
cost us.

Oslo is well known city to the Tartan SPAIN the abundant dining and entertainment
Army so no need for us to get in a options that the city has to offer.
Viking long boat to get to there. There Sangria, Tapas, and Gaudi…... Currency: EURO
are no direct flights from Scotland to The travelling Tartan Armada will be Transport:
Oslo so I know many of us are doing heading to sunny Spain in September Prices in Barcelona (single leg prices
a two city stop to get there in June so the weather should be comfortable approx.as at Nov 2022): Taxi from
so good luck to all of those fans who for the travelling support. At the time airport to city centre £38, Aerobús from
are jumping onto planes, trains and of writing this article, the Spanish have airport to city centre £5, Train+public
automobiles to get to Oslo. had an incredible start to their World bus from airport to city centre £5.50,
The 1000-year-old Norwegian capital Cup campaign winning 7-0 against 3km taxi ride in Barcelona £9, Metro
sits at the head of Oslo Fjord. This Costa Rica. I know after their first ride in Barcelona £2
stunning setting gives hints of the game, many of the Tartan Army fans Scottish Bars: None
wild wonders that lie just beyond the took to social media, including me, to Top Bars:
city. From taking in visual delights at air their thoughts about playing Spain CocoVail Beer Hall, C/ d’Aragó, 284,
Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Viking next March. 08009 Barcelona; Dry Martini, Carrer
Ship Museum, the Munch Museum Striker Ansu Fati has scored 5 goals d’Aribau, 162, 166, 08036 Barcelona;
and Holmenkollen, to the challenging across 10 appearances for Barcelona Vai Moana, Av. del Litoral, s/n, 08005
content within the new Nobel Peace as well as Alvaro Morata who has Barcelona; Dr. Stravinsky, Carrer dels
Centre and the Holocaust Centre, Oslo scored 5 goals in 14 games for Atletico Mirallers, 5, 08003 Barcelona
offers plenty of food for thought. The Madrid; Ferran Torres is also dangerous Cheapest Bar:
Oslo Pass allows free travel on public around the box. The Scottish question (approx. as at Nov 2022): L’Ovella
transport, free parking and many on everyone’s lips is will our regular Negra, Carrer de les Sitges 5, 08001
museum and sight admissions if you EPL defenders such as Robbo, KT, Barcelona; Carrer de Zamora, 78,
are interested and if budget allows McKenna, and Hickey be able to keep 08018, Barcelona; The Mint, Passeig
it, stay a few nights in this wonderful, on top of these talented goal hungry d’Isabel II, 4, 08003, Barcelona; Dow
vibrant city. footballers? Jones, Carrer del Bruc, 97, 08009,
Currency: Norwegian Krone Since the draw took place in October, Barcelona; Bar Manchester, Carrer de
Transport: there are several logistics of where this Valldonzella, 40, 08001, Barcelona
Transport Prices in Oslo (single leg Spanish away game will take place and Average cost of drinks:
prices approx.as at Nov 2022): Taxi it has been up for discussion on social (approx. as
from airport to city centre £100, media with Tartan Army fans. at Nov 2022): Pint of Domestic Beer
Airport Express train to city centre It is currently the toughest European £5.17, G&T £8.61
£15.90, Suburban train from airport to destination to book any travel for Cheapest Restaurants/Cafes (approx.
city £7.50, Airport express bus to city until the venue for the game has been as at Oct 2022): Transilvania Barcelona,
centre £12.55, 3km taxi ride in Oslo confirmed. Tartan Army fans could be C/ de Provenca. 99, 08029 Barcelona
£11.70, Metro/tram/bus/boat ride in looking at anywhere in the country such (Eastern European); Casa Xef, Carrer
Oslo £5.80 as Alicante/Valencia/Madrid/Malaga/ de les Guilleries, 17. 08012, Barcelona
Scottish Bars: The Scotsman, Karl Barcelona to name a few locations. (Mediterranean); Kangam, Carrer
Johans gate 17, 0159 Oslo, weblink: So, for now, we will opt for Barcelona in de Jaume Roig. 8, 08028, Barcelona
https://scotsman.no the hope that we might get something (Korean); Palomino, Carrer d’Andrea
Pub, restaurant, and club on Karl that is easy to travel directly from the UK Doria.37, 08003, Barcelona (Catalan)
Johans gate with everything under one given that low-cost airlines fly regularly Top Attractions: Sagrada Familia
roof. The Basement: Sports pub with from Scotland to most destinations in cathedral, Picasso Museum, Harbour
eight 50-inch screens, shuffleboard, Spain. cable car, Casa Mila
pub food and a great selection of beer, Some of the cities that the Tartan
gin, whisky, and rum. The Pub: Classic Army have visited do not usually come CYPRUS
pub menu, football (soccer) on big equipped with sandy beaches, but
screens, tables inside and outside and that is one of many wonderful things Island of Aphrodite, Halloumi and
a large selection of ales and whiskies. about Barcelona so let us hope that Othello’s Tower
Live music Tuesday-Saturday every the Spanish FA provide us with a great The Scotland squad and the Tartan
week. Open 365 days a year. The Club: location. Army will head out in early September
Nightclub with drinks, DJs, party music The relatively mild weather during the to the sunny island of Cyprus. Like Spain,
and dancing into the night. year is another reason that Barcelona Cyprus is another European destination
Top Bars: could be popular, and we cannot forget where it is a bit of a challenge to book
Crow Bar & Brewery, Torggata 32, flights and accommodation until the
Oslo; Herr Nilsen, C.J. Hambros plass venue of the game has been confirmed.
5, Oslo Last time Scotland travelled to Cyprus in
Cheapest Bar:
(approx. as at Nov 2022): Destiny Bar: 05
Average Pint of Domestic Beer is £6.50
Average cost of drinks (approx. as
at Nov 2022): Pint of Domestic Beer
£8.08, G&T £8.29
Cheapest Restaurants/Cafes:
(approx. as at Oct 2022): Pilestredet
Parkservering, Pilestredet Park 18,
Oslo 0176 (Italian/European/Healthy);
TUNCO Bjerregaards gate 2, Oslo
0172 (Fast Food/Asian/Thai); Haralds
Vaffel, Olaf Ryes Plass 3, Oslo 0552
(Dessert/Café/Fast Food); Sofies Mat
& Vhnhus, Sofies gate 15, Oslo 0170
(European/Scandinavian/Norwegian)
Top Attractions:
Royal Palace guided tour, Munch
Museum, Viking Ship Museum,
National Gallery

Nov 2019, the game will be remembered Currency: Georgian Lari
by fans who travelled to Nicosia. Goals by Transport Prices in Tbilisi (single leg
John McGinn and Ryan Christie secured a prices approx.as at Nov 2022): Taxi
2-1 over Cyprus in our penultimate Euro to/from airport city centre £18.24,
2020 qualifier and advanced us towards Municipal Bus 1 day pass £0.91, Train
a successful Euro 2020 qualification to/from airport to city centre £0.15
campaign. Scottish Bars: None
Cyprus are currently ranked at 110th in the Top Bars:
FIFA World Cup rankings and on paper, Maemani, Bambis Rigi 12 Old Tbilisi,
should be an easy win for us. However, Tbilisi 0105; SMA Craft Beer Bar,
as we know from past tournaments, it can Asatiani Lado st 48, Tbilisi 0105; Terrace
be the smaller nations who can cause us on Doki Street, 7 Doki Turn, Tbilisi 0102
headaches. On a positive note, Scotland Cheapest Bar:
have won all six of their previous meetings (approx. as at Nov 2022): Divino, 9/11
with Cyprus in all competitions, scoring Samgebro St., Tbilisi 0105; Canudos
24 goals in the process. Ethnic Bar, Samaia Sq., Zoestan, V.
Nicosia, the capital of the island of Beridze St. 5
Cyprus, has incorporated elements of Average cost of drinks:
the many empires and kingdoms that (approx. as at Nov 2022): Pint of
have claimed it over centuries stretching Domestic Beer £2.73, G&T £6.98
back to the Bronze Age. Narrow winding Cheapest Restaurants/Cafes:
streets lead visitors from the Cyprus (approx. as at Oct 2022): Divino, 9/11
Museum, with its collection of Neolithic Samgebro St, Tbilisi 0105 (Georgian
and Roman artifacts, to the thick city wall. GEORGIA snacks); Bread & Wine, Merab Kostava
Built in the 1600s by the Venetians, the St. 3, Tbilisi 0108 (Georgian); Nikolozi,
wall now divides the ancient part of the Khachapuri, Kakheti Wine and Kura Anton Katalikosi St.,34, Tbilisi 0105
city from the modern. Step through the River Rafting…… (Georgian/Healthy); Melograno,
stone gates and enter a place where the Georgia are currently ranked 86th in Chichinadze Zakarias St. Near
past is still alive. the FIFA world rankings and the Tbilisi Parliament of Georgia, Tbilisi 0108
trail has been well trodden by the (Italian/Central European/Georgian);
Nicosia Old Town is the ideal option of Tartan Army over the years. Scotland Café Palermo, Ketevan Tsamebulis
you are in the mood for bar/pub crawling. have played against Georgia in the Ave. 11, Tbilisi 0103
There are several choices within walking Euro 2008 playoffs, losing 2-0 in 2007. Top Attractions:
distance, so you can choose to spend Scotland were drawn yet again with Old Town (Altstadt), Aerial Tramway,
your evening in one place or…four! Georgia for the Euro 2016 playoffs and Tsminda Sameba Cathedral, Narikala
Currency: EURO were beaten 1-0 in Tbilisi in 2015. We Fortress.
Transport: returned the favour by beating Georgia
Transport Prices in Nicosia (single leg at home 2-1 in 2007 and then 1-0 in Come and say
prices approx.as at Nov 2022): Bus routes 2014. hello during Euro
available connecting Limassol to Larnaca, One of the current standout Georgian 2023…...
Paphos or Nicosia 1 day unlimited fare players is Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
£4.30, taxis provide connection between or as he is known by his nickname To all the Scotland squad and
all major towns of Cyprus (Nicosia, “Kvaradona”. Dubbed the Georgian Tartan Army fans, please do
Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos) average fare Messi, Kvaratskhelia is currently with come up and say hello to me as
£68, airport shuttle buses under Limassol Napoli scoring 5 times in 8 games as it will be great to meet as many
Urban Buses Company can transfer from well as providing 2 assists. The 21-year- of you as I can; I always wear my
Limassol to Larnaca or Paphos Airport £9 old has been capped 17 times by his home/away personalised top
Scottish Bars: None country and scored eight goals. Tbilisi HAZEGUILDER 09.
Top Bars: will be an interesting city to go back to,
Lost+Found Drinkery, Leoforos Vyronos for Scotland squad to play at the Boris I will be working hard to cover
38, Nicosia 1096; Brewfellas Beer Bar, Paichadze Dinamo Arena and visiting all the games both home and
Pigmalionos 7, Nicosia 1010; Plato’s Bar, Tartan Army fans to hopefully scoop away in 2023 for the FTAM. I
8, Platonos Street - Old Nicosia (near up away tickets to this large capacity will be taking pictures of all of
Laiki Yeitonia) stadium. teams’ action/tartan army fan
Cheapest Bar: Tbilisi is one of the oldest capitals in interactions/venues/locations/
(approx. as at Nov 2022): Nicosia, Europe and is straight from the pages travel as well as covering all of
Backstage Cocktail Bar, Kennedy Ave. of a Gothic fairy-tale. The name of this in forthcoming articles for this
12-14, Nicosia; Ipub Nicosia, Metochiou the city is first mentioned in Georgian amazing and insightful magazine.
25, Agios Andreas, Nicosia; Papa Bar books from 4th century however it was
Nicosia, Uray Sokak 71, Surlariçi, Lefkosa not a capital then but a fortified city. A useful fact……
Average cost of drinks: A deep valley forms the backdrop to
(approx. as at Nov 2022): Pint of Domestic brightly coloured turrets, cobblestoned If you want to know the total
Beer £3.06, G&T £7.67 streets, and a burgeoning art scene, number of miles that one Tartan
Cheapest Restaurants/Cafes: while warm Georgian hospitality Army fan will cover in 2023 over
(approx. as at Oct 2022): Piatsa permeates the mix of contemporary 4 European away games, it is
Gourounaki, Faneromenis 92, Nicosia and traditional restaurants serving up 12,406 miles! No matter how
1011(Mediterranean/Barbeque); To local favourites you all get to the away games by
Anamma, 89 Ledra Street, Nicosia 1011 Convenient geographical conditions any means, safe travels everyone
(Mediterranean/Barbeque); Evroulla, have contributed to the development and see you all on that exciting
Stoa Klollaro, Nicosia (Mediterranean/ of Tbilisi turning it into a prominent European football roadshow in
Barbeque); Elysian Plant Based Kitchen hub between Europe and Asia. Tbilisi 2023!
Bar, Diagorou 15 Shop 3, Nicosia 1097 became the capital of Soviet Georgia
(Café/Fast Food/International) for more than 70 years but finally
Top Attractions: managed to break free from the Soviet
Cyprus Museum, Buyuk Han, Ledra Street Union in 1991 after a couple of years of
Crossing Point, Pivo Microbrewery violent demonstrations.

046

“Scottish Football

needs to open the door

and let progress in.”

Henry McLeish March 2021

Join YOUR only independent national body
of fans today and lets
#GetTheBallRolling
By fans, for fans.

The Scottish Football Supporters Association.
76,000 members strong

and working for fans every day.
Sign up for FREE at:

www.scottishfsa.org/reclaimthegame/

SCOTLAND WOMEN’S
NATIONAL TEAM REVIEW BY

JOHN BLEASDALE

2022 has been a transitional year for “Everyone’s devastated” said Corsie, It was a sucker-punch for the
the Scotland Women’s National Team, “probably more devastated because Scotland Women’s National Team,
and one that ultimately ended with the we don’t feel, tonight, we performed at who were beginning to show signs
disappointment and heartache of failing a level to give us an opportunity to win of progression under Head Coach
to qualify for the 2023 World Cup. the game. Credit to Ireland, they made Pedro Martinez Losa. The calendar
Defeat by Republic of Ireland at it difficult, but they didn’t do anything year did get off to a difficult start as
Hampden in the UEFA playoff final that we hadn’t prepared for. Sometimes Losa took his side to compete in the
ended our hopes of reaching the finals games like that can become difficult Pinatar Cup in Spain, a competition
in Australia and New Zealand next though when you just don’t feel like you they won in 2020 just before the
summer. It means that it is now two can quite get into a rhythm early on.” pandemic hit. Defeat to Wales by
consecutive tournaments that Scotland Having been watching the delayed a 3-1 score line ended hopes of
have missed out on after watching the Women’s Euro’s that summer following retaining the trophy, but a 2-0 win
recent European Championship finals in a collapse of their own qualifying over Slovakia and a penalty shootout
England with envy at a tournament that campaign, the girls were even more win over Hungary after a goalless 90
broke all sorts of crowd records. devastated this time around at missing minutes ensured a fifth placed finish.
The disappointment was etched over out on consecutive World Cup Finals More importantly though, the camp
the faces of captain Rachel Corsie and appearances. This is emphasised by gave Losa the chance to work more
goalkeeper Lee Gibson as they entered Gibson who, when asked how the Ireland closely with his players and get his
the media centre at the National defeat felt in comparison to missing out ideas across on how he wants his
Stadium to do their post-match on the Euro’s, said: “I think it’s worse! team to play. From that moment,
duties for press and broadcast media. You can compare them to an extent, but the players began buying into his
Journalists and reporters knew that they we put ourselves in a really good place philosophy.
both wanted to be a million miles away by beating Austria, who were higher A 2-0 defeat to runaway group
from us that night with emotions still seeds, but when you play home nation winners Spain at Hampden in April
raw, and they both were honest as ever teams it’s always difficult. It’s always a saw lots of positives in spite of the
as no excuses were offered to cover up battle, and we were second best in a lot score line, especially the fact Scotland
what happened on the pitch. of areas today, and ultimately we just were far more competitive than the
weren’t good enough.” 8-0 humiliation to the Spaniards
five months earlier. They took those

08

positives into the rearranged fixture Rachael
with Ukraine, played in Rzeszow, Corsie
Poland due to the ongoing invasion by
Russia, in June and quickly sewed up Lee Gibson
the game in 42 first half minutes with a
Caroline Weir penalty, an Erin Cuthbert bitter blow for the Scotland Women’s then on target in the full international
strike and two headers from Martha National Team, especially after the victory against Venezuela in Cadiz two
Thomas securing a resounding 4-0 win. elation of the Austrian result that raised days later, with Emslie adding a second
The victory also secured Scotland’s hopes and expectations that we would in a 2-1 win to round off 2022.
place in the World Cup playoffs. be looking forward to seeing them at Despite the ultimate disappointment
Next up was a friendly in Netherlands the World Cup Finals down under in of failing to qualify for a second
in preparation for the playoffs. Scotland July next year. consecutive tournament, there is
performed well against the then sixth The rebuild for the inaugural Women’s optimism that the Scotland Women’s
best side in the FIFA World Rankings, Nations League and Euro 2025 National Team can learn from these
recovering from the loss of an early qualifying campaign, where the host heartbreaks and qualify for the Euro
goal to equalise through Claire Emslie, nation(s) will be named in January, has 2025 Finals. The fact that a record
before going down to an 89th minute already began as Losa took his side crowd for a competitive international
winner from Fenna Kalma. Four days to his homeland in November for two was broken three times in 2022
later, Scotland ended their qualifying friendlies to round off the calendar emphasises that the general public are
campaign with a resounding 6-0 win year. Firstly, an Under 23’s international buying into what the group are trying
in the Faroe Islands thanks to goals in Jerez saw goals from Harrison and to achieve, and the hope is that crowds
from Nicola Docherty, Weir, Cuthbert, Jenna Clark secure a 2-0 win over continue to descend on the new
Thomas, Corsie and Jen Beattie, Panama. Clark’s namesake Kelly was home of Hampden Park to create new
boosting confidence further going into memories for the Scotland National
the playoffs. Team as a whole.
The girls were given a tough Semi Final Even in the aftermath of that playoff
draw in Euro’s quarter finalists Austria, heartache, Head Coach Pedro
albeit with home advantage. A tight Martinez Losa was positive about the
game went into extra time where, future for the girls. He said: “The next
two minutes in, Abi Harrison headed opportunity we have that isn’t far is
home a Cuthbert corner from around the Euros, and the sooner we can start
four yards, sending the Scots into the qualification the better. I think this
Final against the Irish. Pre- kickoff, group has come so far and doing a lot
all talk was about the permutations of things well, and we see ourselves
for Scotland to reach the finals and coming back, recovering individuals
avoid another playoff scenario in New and making sure everybody can stick
Zealand in February, with Portugal’s 4-1 together and continue this journey and
win over Iceland and one of the other be competitive at this level for the next
two Semi Finals meaning we required a tournament.”
three goal win to advance. Let’s hope the Scotland Women’s
In the end, a disappointing night, National Team can put the
starting off with Weir’s early missed disappointment of recent campaigns
penalty and rounded off with Amber behind them and use it as motivation
Barrett’s winner 18 minutes from to move forward and reach the next
time, it meant that Ireland, managed major tournament. With quality such
by ex-Scotland Women’s boss Vera as Caroline Weir, Erin Cuthbert and co
Pauw, advanced to the finals. It was a leading the way, there’s every reason
to be positive about the forthcoming
campaign.

09

Image: Hampden Football Museum

SCOTLAND MEN’S by Alistair Aird
INTERNATIONAL
ROLL OF HONOUR
GEORGE YOUNG

In a new series for the the national team deems you to be 50 times or more by Scotland. The
Famous Tartan Army one of the best. first to reach the half century was the
Magazine, Alistair Aird Winning a single cap for your country Rangers defender George Young on 7
looks at the international is a proud achievement, but to win November 1956. Since then, a further
careers of each player in excess of 50 elevates you into a 23 have been added, the latest being
currently on the International pantheon of great players. And for John McGinn who picked up cap
Roll of Honour. The first player to Scottish players it grants you a gold number 50 on 24 September 2022
be featured is George Young, who medal, an invite to attend every against the Republic of Ireland.
was also inducted into The Scottish Scotland home match, and a place Born in Grangemouth on 27 October
Football Hall of Fame in 2005. on the International Roll of Honour. 1922, George Lewis Young was a
Representing your country is said to There’s also the small matter of having colossus. He played as a centre-half
be the pinnacle of any professional your portrait hung in the Scottish in the old 2-3-5 formation (two full
footballer’s career. Being selected is Football Museum. backs, a right half, centre half, left half
recognition that your performances The roll of honour was launched by the and five forwards), although over the
at club level are of a sufficiently high SFA in February 1988. At that point years he would also play at right-back
enough standard that the manager of only 11 players had been capped too. In his pomp he stood 6ft 2in tall

10

Continued season, a 2-1 defeat in Belgium and played both with and against him in
and weighed 15 stone making him a a 6-0 win in Luxembourg. In the latter Services matches during the war.
formidable figure. the match ball was introduced in a That helped the players hatch a plan
Young started his career with somewhat unorthodox manner. It was to nullify Matthews. Cox reckoned that
Kirkintilloch Rob Roy where he came to be dropped into the heart of the the Scots needed to limit the number of
to the attention of Rangers. He signed pitch at the Stade Municipal De La passes Stanley received. He also knew
as a professional at Ibrox in 1941, Ville De Differdange from low-flying that he liked the ball played straight at him
making his debut in Southern League aircraft! Thanks to precision aiming instead of in front of him, so Sammy made
match against Hamilton Accies on 8 the ball landed some three feet from up his mind to be quick into the tackle
November. its intended target – the centre spot - before Matthews could gain control of the
By the end of World War II, Young and bounced high into the air. But the ball.
was a fixture in the Rangers first force of the impact rendered the ball With the threat of England’s ball-playing
team, forming an integral part of the useless, and not long after the match centre-half, Neil Franklin, also nullified by
redoubtable ‘Iron Curtain’ defensive kicked off, a replacement had to be Scotland’s number nine, Billy Houliston,
line that would be the bedrock of the sought. the half-time score was England 0,
success that the Light Blues enjoyed Five months later, Young played in Scotland 3. Cowan was eventually beaten
in that era. Young was part of the the opening match of the Home in the second half when Jackie Milburn
Rangers side that won the first-ever International Championship in season deflected a Stan Mortensen shot into the
domestic Treble in season 1948/49 – 1947/48 - a 2-0 defeat against net. But the spoils of victory deservedly
he scored twice from the penalty spot Northern Ireland in Belfast – but went to Scotland.
in the Scottish Cup Final against Clyde didn’t make the XI for the second, a That campaign was also the first in which
– and he would win six league titles, 2-1 loss against Wales at Hampden. Young would carry his lucky champagne
four Scottish Cups, and two League But Young’s absence would only be cork. After Rangers had beaten Morton to
Cups during his time at Ibrox. temporary. Indeed, between 10 April win the Scottish Cup in 1948, a waiter had
But Young wasn’t just decorated at 1948 and 4 November 1953, he handed Young the cork that had popped
club level, he earned recognition at played in each of the 34 internationals out of the first bottle of champagne that
international level too. Scotland contested. had been used to fill the cup. He told
On 27 November 1946 Young was In the first match of that spell, Young Young to ‘keep it for good luck – and let’s
part of the Scotland XI that drew 0-0 skippered his country for the first hope it brings the [British] International
against Northern Ireland in a British time, goals from Tom Finney and Stan Championship next season.’
Championship match at Hampden Mortensen earning England a 2-0 win For the first fixture at Ninian Park, the
Park. David Shaw, brother of Young’s at Hampden. England went on to win cork was thrust inside Young’s blazer
Rangers team-mate Jock – captained the British Championship, but Young pocket. And before the players took to
the side, an honour that Young would and his team exacted revenge a year the field, he touched it for luck. Scotland
have in 48 of the 54 appearances he later. won the match 3-1, but they had enjoyed
made for Scotland. Wins over Wales and Northern Ireland a fortunate break in the encounter. With
Although that was Young’s first ‘full’ set up a title decider at Wembley Scotland two goals ahead, Willie Waddell
cap, he had made history six months on 9 April 1949. Scotland won 3-1 thumped a shot towards goal that the
earlier when he was the first player to thanks to goals from Jimmy Mason, Welsh goalkeeper, Cyril Sidlow, couldn’t
come on as substitute for Scotland. Billy Steel and Lawrie Reilly, but the
The Scots had played Switzerland in a success was also built on defending 11
Victory International in front of 111,899 that was ‘courageous’ and ‘skilful’.
at Hampden, and Young had come on Those were the words of the Glasgow
to replace Morton’s Billy Campbell at Herald’s ‘football correspondent’ and
right-half. Although it would be the he singled out Jimmy Cowan for his
1960’s before substitutions became superb performance in goal, while
the norm in Scottish Football, in also stating that Young had ‘reduced
friendly international matches they [Tom] Finney’s reputation to an almost
were permitted by prior agreement. unbelievably low level.’ Young’s club
The match was initially classified as mates, Willie Woodburn and Sammy
unofficial, but the status was later Cox, drew praise too.
changed. Scotland won 3-1. Recalling the match in his 1958 memoir
In April 1947, Young faced England for George Young Talks Football, Young
the first time. Willie Woodburn wore the reckoned it was ‘Scotland’s greatest
number five jersey, so Young moved to triumph’ and called it ‘a glorious hour
right-back where his direct opponent for Scottish football’. The plan was to
was Willie Mullen of Wolverhampton stifle the threat of Stanley Matthews
Wanderers. According to the ‘Football and that was achieved by stationing
Correspondent’ reporting in the Sammy Cox at left-back. Cox had
Glasgow Herald, Young ‘was often been an integral part of Rangers’
beaten for speed by Mullen, but at Treble-winning season, playing in 43 of
close quarters he was the master.’ the 44 matches the Light Blues played.
Young also featured in a couple of All but one of those appearances had
friendlies before the end of that come at left-half. But he had prior
knowledge of Matthews, having

Continued George Young, who is said to have by Uruguay – and would miss just four
hold. The linesman signalled that acquitted himself well against the of the next 18 international matches
the ball had crossed the line and a pace of Bob Langton, it wouldn’t be Scotland contested.
goal was awarded. But analysis of the last time that bureaucracy would That run of games would include the
photographs post-match showed that deny him the opportunity to lead his qualifying matches for the 1958 World
Sidlow had actually grasped hold of country at a World Cup Finals either. Cup in Sweden. Would it therefore be
the ball some two yards ahead of the On this occasion, the Scotland skipper third time lucky for Young? Would he
goal line. Luck had favoured the Scots, tried his best to convince the top brass get the opportunity to end a glittering
and Young later stated that ‘my ‘lucky to reverse their decision. His pleas fell career by representing his country on
champagne cork’ had made good at on deaf ears. In his opinion the SFA the biggest stage of them all? Alas, the
the first time of asking!’ had ‘erred’ and later noted that the selectors would once again intervene
The victory was Scotland’s first in ‘decision of the Scottish F.A not to and deny Young.
Wales for 17 years and the first post- play in the 1950 World Cup Finals has The qualification pathway had
war win over any of the home nations, gone down as a miserable moment for changed since the previous World
so it was no surprise that Young took me’. Young was convinced that had Cup. Rather than getting in via the
the cork into the dressing room with they gone to Brazil, Scotland would British Championship, Scotland and
him for the second match against have put on a ‘good show, and just the other 26 teams in Europe were
Northern Ireland at Hampden Park. as important, everyone who made split into nine groups, each of which
Once again, he touched it before he the trip would have returned home a contained three teams. Countries
took to the field, but this time it looked better and more experienced player.’ would play each other home and away,
like the magic had worn off. The Irish Young’s next cap came in a 3-1 win with the group winners automatically
were 2-0 up after only five minutes against Switzerland at Hampden. making it through to the main draw.
thanks to a double from D. J Walsh of But it was the previous encounter Scotland were bracketed in Group 9
West Bromwich Albion, and although between the sides back in May 1948 alongside Spain and Switzerland, and
parity was restored, the teams were that stimulated some rather bizarre they got off to a flying start against
still locked together at 2-2 going into memories. Young recalled that the the Spaniards at Hampden. Jackie
the final minute of the game. But at referee for the friendly match in Berne Mudie would be the star of the show,
that moment, Billy Houliston stepped seemed to be in favour of the home netting a hat-trick in a 4-2 win, but in
up and scored the winning goal. The side, and this was proven when after the opinion of the Gair Henderson of
waiter’s dream that the cork would Switzerland scored, he ‘leapt into the the Evening Times, Young, up against
give the necessary fortune to deliver air, waving his arms, and then rushed Alfredo di Stefano, played ‘one of the
the British Championship would soon over to the goalscorer and shook him great games of his career.’
become reality. And from that moment by the hand.’ The host won 2-1. A trip to Basle came next to face
on, George Young would carry with Young’s run of consecutive Switzerland. Although he didn’t know
him his cork and the moniker ‘Corky’. appearances eventually ended when it at the time, it would be the last
When it came to the British torn knee muscles ruled him out time George Young would pull on a
Championship in season 1949/50 of a 4-2 defeat against England at Scotland jersey.
there was an added incentive for the Hampden in April 1954. He now faced Young recalled the match as being
participating teams. FIFA had stated a race against time to be fit for the ‘one of the hardest internationals in
that the teams that finished first and World Cup. which I’d ever taken part.’ It was a
second would qualify for the 1950 Scotland had qualified for the
World Cup in Brazil. The competition tournament after finishing as
had first started some 20 years earlier, runners-up to England in the British
but this would be the one that was Championship – the SFA decided on
held since the cessation of hostilities at this occasion that they would take the
the end of World War II. place in Switzerland - but in the end
Neither Scotland nor England had it wouldn’t be injury that would rule
played in any of the three tournaments Young out. He managed to regain
contested, and Scotland got off to a fitness, but rather than captain his
flying start in their quest to qualify, country at the World Cup, Young’s
thumping Northern Ireland 8-2 and close season was spent playing games
then beating Wales 2-0. With England in North America with Rangers.
also emphatically defeating the Irish, There were rumours that the Ibrox
winning 9-2 at Wembley, and beating side refused to release any of their
Wales 4-1 in Cardiff, it seemed that players to play for Scotland, but in the
it was a done deal; England and previously referenced 1958 memoir,
Scotland were off to Brazil. Young felt he had been overlooked by
Alas, the SFA and their secretary, the selectors as they had doubts over
Sir George Graham, had decreed his fitness. The fact that Young played
that Scotland would only take up in each of the nine matches Rangers
a place if they won the group. To played on their tour suggests that
achieve that they needed at least a those misgivings were incorrect.
draw against England at Hampden Young came back into the team for
on 15 April 1950. But a goal from the first match that followed a dismal
Roy Bentley secured a 1-0 win and World Cup campaign – Scotland lost
the Championship for England. For 1-0 to Austria and were hammered 7-0

12

Continued that he was being omitted. That was been afforded the opportunity to part
tactical battle, with the Swiss enjoying confirmed shortly afterwards when the on his terms. There were rumours that
early supremacy thanks to their two chairman of the selectors came to the Young had declared that the match in
pacy wingers. They took the lead after table around which the players were the Spanish capital would have been
13 minutes, but Young then stepped assembled and announced the team. his last as a professional footballer and
in to make some tactical changes, Bobby Evans would be at centre-half, that statement is said to have irked
instructing the two half-backs, Ian Tommy Docherty would be captain, the selectors. Young refuted that,
McColl, and Tommy Docherty, to step and without reason or rationale, though. He simply acknowledged that
inside and look after the threat posed George Young would be dropped. there were some officials in the SFA
by the inside forwards, while the full- He later reflected: hierarchy that he was never popular
backs, Eric Caldow and John Hewie, It would not have cost the selectors with.
were told to ‘keep on the toes of anything to have called me on one side George Young’s Scotland career
the wingers.’ It worked like a charm, and explained that they were keeping was therefore bookended with
Scotland scoring twice to edge the together the team that had beaten appearances against Switzerland.
game by two goals to one. Germany the previous Wednesday. If you include that appearance as a
But Young was struggling. He had They might even have taken the angle substitute in the Victory International
suffered a groin strain against Spain, – as other associations have done for against the Swiss, George was capped
and although he was fit to play in old servants – that I wasn’t considered 54 times by Scotland. Scotland won
Switzerland after receiving treatment quite fit enough. In fact, I would have 29 of those matches, drew 11, and lost
from the former Third Lanark trainer, been right with them. Instead, I was 14. He captained his country on 48
Peter Russell, he felt twinges during literally tossed overboard, stripped occasions, a total that is unsurpassed.
the game. of my captaincy, and from no official Billy Bremner is next on the list, with
The next qualifying fixture for the Scots was there a word of sympathy or 39 of his 54 caps coming as skipper of
would be the return match with Spain explanation. Scotland. And when you also consider
in Madrid. Young desperately wanted Young had been bruised and battered that Young was capped 22 times by
to skipper the side and knew with a during his career. He had broken his the Scottish League – only Bobby
period of rest he would be fit to take nose three times, had stitches inserted Evans (25) won more caps than him -
his place at the heart of the defence. in wounds on various parts of his body, then his place in the pantheon of great
En-route to Madrid, Scotland arranged and had his leg encased in plaster in Scottish footballers is secure.
to play West Germany, the reigning four occasions. But he said that the Young retired from playing at the end
World Champions, in a friendly match. treatment of the selectors hurt him of season 1956/57. He managed Third
In a bid to ensure he was fully fit for more than any of them. Lanark for a spell before becoming a
the vital clash with Spain, Young It was a poor way to bring the curtain successful hotelier. He passed away on
suggested that it would perhaps be down on a wonderful international 10 January 1997 at the age of 74.
best if he rested his injured groin and career. The first player to be capped 50
missed the friendly. This decision was times for Scotland should surely have 13
not well received by the SFA selectors,
and over the next few days decisions
were made that would result in a rather
ignominious end to George Young’s
Scotland career.
Young takes up the story:
After we arrived in Spain and settled
down into our quarters, too, I began to
hear from friends that it was generally
accepted that I would not be in the
line-up against Spain.
Experience has taught me prudence
in such matters, of course, but on
the Saturday morning the team was
due to be chosen I had a humiliating
experience which, frankly, I will never
forget’
Young joined his team-mates to
hear the chairman of the selection
committee announce the starting XI.
During the meeting, Tommy Docherty
was asked to gather players together
for a photograph. This role would
usually be something a captain would
perform, and it was at that stage that
Young knew his international career
was over.
A training session followed, and after
the team returned to the hotel for lunch,
Young heard from some journalists

ELSIE COOK

Elsie was joint founder and honorary secretary of
Scottish Women’s Football Association in 1972.
She went on to manage the Scotland Women’s Team in 1974.

Elsie writes here for Famous Tartan Army Magazine
in her own unique Ayrshire way….

Pelé 1966 McCrae, brother of Killie trainer, Walter, We approached an imposing, tall, serious
This was to be a huge highlight in my life, and a football fan, he heard us out, looking, coloured gentleman wearing a
I was meeting the one and only Edson laughed at our “daftness” and gave us Brazilian badge on his blazer, he turned
Arantes Do Nascimento aka PELÉ! I’d held two dozen of the best tammies...OOFT! out to be Dr Hilton Gosling, team doctor
this name in ma heart since 1958! During Never slept that night for dreaming of and through an interpreter we managed to
this period in the mid 60s I was employed meeting the world’s top player, PELÉ! convey the nature of our visit!
by Robt Mackie & Co, a “bonnet’ A well, two bus rides later, we arrived Immediately he took tae us twa giggly
manufacturer supplying Glengarry’s and at the hotel in Troon and there on the lassies and we were given VIP treatment
Balmoral headgear etc to the Scottish skyline in front of us, in the afternoon and ushered inside by manager, Vincent
army regiments, and, in those 60s days, the sunshine, on the edge of the world Feola who, laughingly, ordered us to stay
obligatory tartan tammies, for Scots fans famous golf course, was the towering put and not to look so scared! The players
going to football matches at Hampden and Marine Hotel! I can feel the anticipation, were just finishing their meal...my knees
Wembley! the excitement to this day! Tentatively were wobbling, my mouth was dry....While
I had a go at everything from making the we strolled forward to the front door he went to look for God!
pom poms, darning, winding, looking and a fit of giggles overtook us, nervous I felt like running away...there was too
efter the stock, even had a go at designing giggling...they would either accept our much emotion! Out they came Garrincha,
when striped woollen mini dresses came gift, a tribute to their greatness, a small Gilmar, Gerson, Tostao, Edu...Djalma
intae fashion..but ma favourite job was Scottish souvenir, or they would send Santos..I was getting more and more
working on the huge, noisy, warp machines us packing! Nothing ventured, nothing nervous...I couldn’t see PELÉ...OMG here
that produced the tartan tammies and gained! We rushed in where men would he was, right in front of me, breathing the
imagining aw the Scotland fans trooping never dare to tread! same air as me...with a smile to beat all
tae Wembley in a bunnet I had knitted! My lifelong ambition to meet PELÉ, of smiles. The realisation that I was about to
The warp machines were so noisy and Santos and Brazil, the world’s greatest meet the one and only Pelé was too much
busy, so busy, but I loved it, learning aw ever football player was to be realised for me and I burst into tears..I burst into
the different tartans! I had ma wee corner big style! I had presented tartan tammies tears?
in the room decorated wae photos of ma to lots of foreign teams, Eintracht, Real Concerned, he held me by my shoulders
Killie ‘65 legends, and I was happy! Madrid, Nandori Tirana, the Saudi and kissed my cheek, upset that I was
I thought I would apply for a job, a waitress, youth team, even the Russian president, crying! Oh! Dear! I turned to Pat...oh!
a receptionist, a short time job, in the Kosygin, but this was a day I would heavens above! Pat was crying as well and
hotel they were booked into, the Marine remember all my life and the reception she didnae like football!! Pelé never once
Hotel in Troon! Time for that was against given us by the Brazil team was stopped smiling, surely Pelé must be the
me so, instead, I talked my workmate and overwhelming to say the least! most cheerful and modest footballer in the
friend, Pat Alcock, into accompanying me We were rather overawed by the business.
to Troon to see the greatest player on the imposing, luxurious hotel confronting He jokingly tried his tammie on and we
planet...Pat was not into football, but she us and more so by the number of had a photograph taken on the hotel
tolerated my enthusiasm and agreed, “OK! important looking men hanging about steps..he never stopped laughing and
You’re on!” We begged 2 dozen tartan the entrance! Deep breath, here we go! smiling and shaking our hands and
tammies from the boss, the lovely Drew

50 years on,
Elsie catches up

14 with Pelé

thanking us, until he was ordered, jokingly, Jimmy, a talented football player and in anticipation of the players coming
aboard the team bus. When Dr Hilton goal scorer wae Stewarton, asked if he out for training. There was movement
Gosling found out that we didn’t have could come along with me and my friend at the door..the crowd of hundreds of
tickets for the match at Hampden he Sue! “Of course you can son!” What likeminded fans, pushing forward taking
handed us complementary tickets for the an adventure awaited us in Liverpool.. us with it..the police pushing us back....
stand and wouldn’t hear of us going by if we thought the Troon adventure was Lo! And behold, the KING, Pelé! We
local bus to Hampden Park, “Oh! No! You memorable..well, this, to come, eclipsed pushed forward some more and young
must come with us!” so there we were, even that! Jimmy, holding aloft a Buchanan tartan
twa daft young lassies from Stewarton, World Cup 1966 Tammy, breaches the cordon and makes
travelling to Glasgow in the Brazil bus, We found ourselves in the huge city of for the one and only, the best football
police escort and everything. Liverpool, ma faither was a Liverpudlian player on the planet...Edson Arantes do
We were very undecided which of the two and by pure chance or luck, baith, in Nascimento..”our” Pelé!
teams to shout for, so we decided Brazil fact, ma grandparents were on holiday A gruff policeman grabs young Jimmy
first half, Scotland second half...we were in Stewarton staying at oor hoose.....noo by the shoulder and starts hawling
sitting in the “posh” seats beside wee ma English granny was a very outspoken him back into the crowd, when lo and
Tam McLean and Billy Dickson, oor Killie Yorkshire wummin, a spade was a shovel behold, the voice, “THE” VOICE shouts
heroes and lots of other famous faces. kinda thing, she wis aye oan at me for out, “These my friends from Scotland!”
The game was nothing to write home ma “Dusty Springfield” false eyelashes and he took the policeman’s hand gently
about, a cracking Stevie Chalmers goal and ma shorter than short miniskirt! from young Jimmy’s shoulder. PELÉ!
if I remember correctly, but ma clearest She astounded me that morning as we Amidst the melee...HE had spotted US!
memory, I jist couldnae get away wae wee were getting organised tae leave..she We felt famous, honoured, Pelé had
Bremner kicking Pelé, every chance he looked me up and doon wae that stern remembered us and recognised us in
got! A friendly? Ha! Game finished 1-1 but ‘you’re in for it’ luk...and handed me her this jostling crowd!
the Scottish crowd were appreciative of hoose keys...her HOOSE KEYS..for Cecil Huge beaming smile, a gigantic
their world famous opponents. Road, Seaforth, LIVERPOOL!! Saints be grin...”Come in, come in...” blooming
We were later invited to their reception praised we were off tae the ‘Pool! Whit heck, he was inviting us in to meet the
at the Grosvenor Hotel, but declined, we a kind gesture fae ma lovely English players...poor young and football daft,
would have looked right out of place in granny! Jimmy, was not allowed into the bar..wee
our 60s bell bottoms and platform shoes! Found granny’s hoose in Seaforth and soul had to wait in the lounge while Pelé
As the team bus left Hampden Park, Pelé settled in..it was great tae be back himself introduced us to all the Brazil
shouted over, “You come to Liverpool!” in Liverpool, especially under these squad and “this is Garrincha, Gerson,
“Yes! we sure will!” I shouted back surprising conditions....now for a bus Djalma Santos, Jairzhino, Tostao, Gilmar,
laughing. The Brazil team were still smiling trip to Lymm in Cheshire where we had Alcindu, Edu, Bellini, Lima, Altair!”
under their tammies when they left for a heard the Brazil team were staying. An etc never even thought to get their
tour of Sweden next day! adventure! autographs...or even photographs!
So there and then, I started planning our We find the Hotel and the place was
visit to Goodison Park and the World Cup cordoned off by police! Hundreds of
matches there and hopefully more happy football fans already there, all waiting
memories! My young 10yr old cousin,

15

Continued OMG our luck definitely was in! We Goodison!
arrived in Middlesborough at the Pelé was injured and sat this game out...
OMG the most exciting times in my training pitch and there they were, all sadly, he and Garrincha were never to
life and I forget to take photos and sweaty and muddy and training hard.. play in the same team again...this is a
as anyone will tell you, I take my but where was Pelé, no sight of him! must win game for Hungary or they go
camera, EVERYWHERE! It was jist so Oh! Goodness he was right in front of out...last time these two teams met was
overwhelming, then they were all called me, in GOALS, he was the goalkeeper! in 1954 quarter final, in what was later
together for a trip to Middlesbrough’s he was agile and quick as a cat, riveting called “the Battle of Berne!” Hungary
ground for a training session! to watch, the beauty of his movement v Brazil..In a packed and noisy stadium,
Brazil V Bulgaria and the quickness of his response to a Lima hits a blasting shot early doors
Well, they were up against Bulgaria, shot! Watched for a short while but Stan from 40yds which hits the crossbar and
who had a reputation for being dirty then one of the Welsh boys brought 3 minutes later Bene moves in from right
and physical..but they won that game out a ball and we had a wee kick about wing, clever individual play and its 1-0 to
by 2-0...Pelé was tightly shadowed between ourselves....”See you tomorrow Hungary. Tostao then scores a cracker for
and fouled, every kick of the ball! Pelé at Everton!” laughed PELÉ! Brazil after neat approach play fae Falcao
and Garrincha both scored...they were That luck was still with us throughout and Henrique and we look set for a
incredible together...we watched from the two weeks, as these like minded Brazilian victory. Alas we were so wrong!
the halfway line. Garrincha was so clever fans took us tae watch the Hungarians The Hungarian side were awesome..led
and pacy on that right wing...with his training. The next game was Hungary in by Florian Albert and Bene they were
trademark...those bandy legs, his mazy a coupla days and another three of my unstoppable and worthy 3-1 winners!
runs, the fans appreciated all the skill football heroes were de Stefano, Ferenc Pelé was missed!!
on show! The atmosphere that night Puskas, Ghento, oh! and Santamaria...I The World Cup of ’66 really advanced
was incredible, an amazingly packed recollected I had also met them when the gemme of fitba for all, and that
Goodison Park and an enjoyable start to they came to Rugby Park, with the thankfully did have an impact on oor
Brazil’s World Cup. famous Real Madrid side and who was women’s gemme too!
Next up for Brazil, a must win match, leading the training session that day,
were the much fancied Portuguese none other than Ferenc Puskas, the most
team with their highly thought of striker, famous Mighty Magyar of all time! We
Eusebio! Brazil manager, Vincente Feola stayed behind and wished them well,
fielded a completely changed team had a photo taken wae Bene and Puskas
for this, must win match, dropping GK and told them we were really looking
Gilmar, Capt Bellini, Garrincha, Tostao, forward to this meeting of Brazil and
Henrique, Djalma Santos, Zito, Alcindu Hungary! Next day
and Gerson to the bench. Pelé was We had an amazing time thanks tae
bundled off every ball and finished off Stan, and Evs and we aw got on so well
being badly injured and helped from the as fitba fans the world ower dae! They
pitch..that is my abiding memory of that had a bright red Ford Cortina, I think it
particular game! See photo attached! was, a car all decked out wae World Cup
My dream of sharing some time with my stickers and England pennants and aw
hero was shattered, my date with Pelé sorts of memorabilia a mix of Man Utd
was not to be! Quarter final Portugal v and Man City!
North Korea 5-3
Well we had jist met up wae these Welsh
guys, Manchester Utd and Manchester
City fans and they asked us if we wanted
to go along with them to watch a Brazil
training session at the Middlesborough
training ground, Rockcliffe Park. Phew!
How could we be so lucky?

Jimmy Flemming
with Alcindu

16

SCOTTISH FA MARKS 150 YEARS SINCE
FIRST INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL GAME

 The Scottish FA on 30th November marked Scottish FA Chief Executive Ian Maxwell: “It Hampden Park is currently hosting a special
150 years since the first official men’s is an honour to visit the West of Scotland exhibit, ‘The History Makers’, showcasing
international football game –took place Cricket Ground on the 150th anniversary of artefacts that tell the stories of the key
between Scotland and England, at the the first-ever international football game, to moments in Scotland’s football history.
West of Scotland Cricket Ground in Partick, walk in the footsteps of the first Scotland  The exhibit includes the only surviving match
Glasgow. team.”  ticket from the first international football
O  n St Andrew’s Day, 30 November 1872, G  raeme Brown from the Hampden game in 1872, alongside a professionally
teams representing Scotland and England Collection: “This original ‘Great Match’ restored embroidered lion which adorned
took to the field in front of thousands provided the ignition switch and launchpad the Scotland shirts on the day. 
of spectators to play out a 0-0 draw – a for the explosion of football across Glasgow  The exhibition also includes mementos
significant moment in the development and Scotland, leading to the trailblazing from the Ravenscraig Pioneers, the first
of international football. The size of the Scotch Professors taking their beautiful Scotland women’s national team, including
crowd that day is uncertain, estimates game to the world. This match is the a match programme and poster from their
range between 2,500 and 4,000. All eleven foundation stone of modern football, and 1972 match against England.
players for the Scotland team were selected our #Fitba150 programme ensures its  
from the membership of Queen’s Park FC. celebrated, and gains the recognition it
T  eams of schoolboys and girls from nearby deserves.”
Hyndland Primary School took to a specially  Colin Taylor, great-grandson of Queen’s Park
laid pitch at the West of Scotland Cricket and Scotland’s Joseph Taylor: “Growing up
Ground to walk in the footsteps of history, in England, my dad (Joseph’s Grandson)
playing out an entertaining recreation of always looked out for Queen’s Park’s results.
the original match. Scotland player Craig When he passed away, I was inspired to
Gordon surprised the schoolkids by joining research my family history and was amazed
in with the match. to discover my great grandfather’s role in
  such a significant moment in world football
Colin and Alex Taylor, great grandsons of history. It is a humbling experience to stand
Joseph Taylor who represented Scotland where he did, 150 years later.”
that day, attended the event alongside C  olin Mair, Chairman of West of Scotland
representatives from the Scottish FA, Cricket Club: “West of Scotland Cricket
Scottish Football Museum and Queen’s Club has always been very conscious and
Park. Joseph Taylor played at full-back for extremely proud of our Hamilton Crescent
Scotland in the first six international matches ground’s heritage and its highly significant
and featured in all three of Queen’s Park’s place in Scottish and world sporting history. 
Scottish Cup wins between 1874 to 1876. Very few grounds anywhere can have
 The Scottish FA supported the efforts by the held internationals in four different sports
Hampden Collection group of historians, - cricket, football, hockey and rugby. We
poets and volunteers to arrange the event are delighted to welcome representatives
and match recreation. Graeme Brown from and supporters of Scottish football to the
the Hampden Collection teamed up with celebration of the 150th anniversary of
Glasgow Football Tour, to offer historical the first-ever football international on St
walking tours of the ‘Three Hampdens’. Andrew’s Day.”
 Graeme has worked to uncover the  The milestone date was marked as part
historical significance of the Hampden of the Scottish FA’s calendar of events
Bowling Club as the site of the original celebrating 150 years of Scotland’s national
Hampden Park, the world’s first enclosed, game, including the founding of the Scottish
purpose-built international football ground. FA and the first season of the Scottish Cup.
The Hampden Collection is also working The Scottish Football Museum based in
to have the Bowling Club and surrounding
areas recognised with UNESCO World
Heritage status, and call it ‘Football’s Square
Mile’.
 

17

TURKEY VS SCOTLAND
INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY GAME
Wednesday 16th November 2022 - Diyarbakir Stadyumu

It was the longest friendly game to be arranged into question as some of the players looked Hendry missed a header which bounced
with numerous Turkish locations being banded exposed at the back, particularly in clearing over the bar much to his frustration and the
around which proved frustrating for many balls from the Turkish feet. Defender Ozan travelling tartan army.
travelling fans trying to organise flights and Kabak looked dangerous, and had it not The game finished with a Turkish Delight
accommodation. been for Craig Gordon, Scotland would of 2-1 to the home side and a bittersweet
Diyarbakir, the Kurdish stronghold city, finally have been down at least 3-0 at half time. night for John McGinn’s 51st appearance for
provided the Moorish backdrop and hosted A counterattack after Stuart Armstrong’s Scotland who moves up to joint seventh in the
its first ever international for the Turkish side foul at the edge of the Turkish box saw all-time scoring charts of the national team.
after serious concerns over security given the Grant Hanley and Scott McTominay caught SJM’s tally now stands at 15 Scotland goals,
problematic issues with local fans. The city is napping and a lack of communication the same as former Scotland attacker James
situated around a high plateau by the banks between allowed Calhanoglu to produce McFadden; one of which we will never forget
of the Tigris River on which stands the historic a wonderful cross onto Kabak in the 40th that famous goal in Paris.
Diyarbakir Fortress providing a dramatic minute to push the Turks in front just before How the teams lined up | Match stats
backdrop to travelling fans. Scotland finally half time. Turkey (3-4-2-1): Çakir; Kabak, Söyüncü,
managed to secure their final 10th game of Steve, looking pensive with his ferocious Özkacar; Çelik, Kökçü (Özcan 45), Çalhanoglu
2022 with Turkey. Never has a friendly game note taking in the dugout, decided to (Türüç 69), Kadioglu (Elmali 34); Ünder (Yüksek
had so many tartan army fans discussing make some tactical changes at the start of 81), Kahveci (Aktürkoglu 81); Tosun (Ünal 69)
the different parameters of travelling with the 2nd half with Scott McKenna coming Subs not used: Bayindir, Akaydin, Sinik,
most people flying via Istanbul or Antalya to on to replace Grant Hanley. With only 9 Alemdar, Bozok, Bulut, Güler, Sanuç
Diyarbakir from the UK. minutes in, Cengiz Under spotted a sliver Goals : Kabak 40, Under 49
With neither Scotland or Turkey making it to the of space through Scott’s legs to drive the Manager: Stefan Kuntz
World Cup in Qatar, the game was a platform ball straight through and past Craig to net 53% of possession, 16 shots including 4 on
for both teams to kick off their preparations Turkey’s second goal. goal, 6 corner kicks, 4 offsides and as we all
for EURO 2024. Many regular international After such a successful September for saw, there were some shocking incidents on
players were missing from the squad such as Steve Clarke’s side from their positive pitch resulting in 14 fouls and 2 yellow cards.
Celtic trio Calum McGregor, Anthony Ralston run and Nations League promotion, the Scotland (3-4-2-1): Gordon; Hendry, Hanley
and Alex Taylor who had all headed to land of performance of the overall squad was (McKenna 45), Tierney; Fraser (Ramsay 45),
down under with the club. Nathan Patterson, nowhere near what we had witnessed McTominay (Ferguson 79), Gilmour (Jack
Che Adams and Kenny McLean also pulled previously. Just when we thought all was 67), Robertson; S Armstrong (Christie 67),
out of the squad’s preparations ahead of the lost and a heavy defeat was looming, in McGinn; Dykes (Brown 79)
match as well as Aaron Hickey missing due to the 61st minute, Super John McGinn took Subs not used: Kelly, Porteous, McCrorie
injury. matters into his own hands and created Goals : McGinn 62
Steve Clarke named his starting line-up for some really dazzling displays of creativity Manager: Steve Clarke
the game in Diyarbakir with Robbo retrieving from the halfway line. SJM managed to 47% of possession with 9 shots including 1 on
his captain’s armband from John McGinn beat several Turkish players and drive in goal, 6 corner kicks, 1 offside and as tempers
who pulled on usual No7 jersey. Both started his excellent finish in the far-right hand frayed on the pitch, 2 yellow cards.
alongside their fellow EPL players Kieran corner much to the delight of the travelling
Tierney and Scott McTominay. Also joining the support. By Hazel Guilder
Scotland EPL line-up were Stuart Armstrong, SJM’s goal seemed to wake up our sleepy
Billy Gilmour, and Ryan Fraser with Lyndon side and the creative football that had
Dykes upfront. Liverpudlian based Calvin been missing in action suddenly appeared
Ramsey was selected for the squad and finally from nowhere like a mirage in the desert.
made his international debut substituting With both Scott McKenna and Lyndon
Bologna’s Lewis Ferguson in the second half. Dykes both badly tackled in the penalty
Turkey started the game strongly with Scotland area, it should have been a clear penalty,
barely getting a chance to settle in the cold, however the referee dismissed any claims
rainy conditions. Craig Gordon pulled off some by Scotland. To compound matters, Jack
spectacular saves to deny Hakan Calhanoglu
twice. The Scotland defence was then called

18

STEVE CLARKE www.robinson.photo

In his own words...

On not qualifying for The World Cup The first goal is the key goal. If we get in Photo by Colin Robinson Imaging
If you’re involved in football, you understand at half-time 0-0 we can tweak the team a
you have to move on. It was disappointing little bit and do what we want to do and
for ourselves not to go to the World Cup. still be on level terms.
I’m sure it was disappointing for Turkey  not To defend a set-piece like that is poor, so
to go to the World Cup. But you have to we will make sure we try and improve on
look forward to the next challenge, which is that. It’s not something that we have been
qualifying for Germany in 2024. culpable off recently so it is something we
On playing the friendly match can address.
versus Turkey On John McGinn’s goal
It was important to fit a match into the A fantastic John McGinn goal, as he
November window because going from normally gets for us, and that changes
September to March is too long without the dynamic of the game. Turkey had
seeing the players. We’ve managed to to be a little more cautious, we had
get a good percentage of the players with some moments but we couldn’t get the
us that were with us in September even equaliser.
though it’s not an official FIFA window. Commenting on Scotland’s penalty
That was important. We can speak about claims when Lyndon Dykes and Scott
what we did. We’ve already touched on McKenna were impeded at a second
what we did in the last camp in September half corner
and we look to improve that. When you look at the penalty incident, it
On the situation where Celtic players was a clear penalty and why it’s not given
were not released for international duty I do not know.
due to their trip to Australia On the flip side, when Stuart Armstrong
The base line is it’s not an official International went down on the edge of the box, I
window. I don’t know why because there is don’t think it was a foul and Turkey score
a World Cup going on, that sounds pretty from the counter-attack off that. I would
official to me. That’s what it is. Clubs don’t have liked the penalty, to be honest.
have to release their players and Celtic have On Liverpool defender Calvin Ramsay
chosen not to release theirs for this game. earning his first full cap.
I have to say I’m disappointed by that Young Calvin gets his first cap, which is
decision but we have to take it on the chin great for him and it was a tough night for
and it’s a chance for someone else. It was him. He gave us a little bit more defensive
just a blanket decision. Celtic have said that stability. Lewis Ferguson came off the
none of their players are available for any bench and was very good.
games. So all the countries are affected Summing up the final game of the year
Describing his thoughts on Scotland’s There are positives to be taken from
first defeat in five matches, as they went the game but the overriding feeling
down 2-1 to Turkey. is disappointment that the four-game
I have mixed thoughts on the match. I unbeaten run comes to an end.
thought at times we coped quite well.
Obviously at other times not so well. We
probably gave up too many chances in
the first half, a lot of them from our own
slackness, maybe the mentality of a friendly.
It should be mentioned that it is a long trip
to get here, we had a long flight.
We only had 20 minutes’ tactical work on
the pitch the day before the game, which
was in front of everybody who wanted to
watch it. So we can make some excuses
from that but I don’t want to make too
many excuses.
There was some things we tried on the
pitch, organisation and set-plays, some of
it worked and some of it didn’t work so we
have to go away, analyse what we did and
hopefully be much better next year.

19

www.robinson.photo

THE CHICK
YOUNG
COLUMN

Brilliant, weren’t we?  Like weans not I’m not getting any younger.  The referee The tournament should never have
invited to your class mate’s  birthday party is looking at his watch.  Although I’m very been awarded to Qatar and although
and reacting with the old “you kidding? I grateful for this new fad for eons of time I was raging about it being moved to
would never have gone to that.” added on. our winter, I’ve actually come round to
Then the morning after they’re all talking I’m very happy to hang about for a bit yet. wondering what the fuss was all about…
how you missed yourself. Life can be But here is the thing.  For all the political even if I was one of those getting well
a scunner sometimes. World cups in aches and pains, the undoubted fussed.
November in the Middle East? Stuff that corruption within FIFA and their logic Why shouldn’t the Middle East host it? It’s
for a game of soldiers. defying double standards, Qatar has still never been there.  It’s a cup for the World
But here it turned out kind of good.  been magical. as I understand it.
And here we were again, faces pressed It’s still the greatest sporting show on So why has it never been held In
against the window like skint weans earth.  It’s still a must watch. Australasia? But I digress.
outside a sweetie shop. I haven’t been able to take my eyes off This World Cup is kicking lumps out of
England baiting and smiles of consolation it, a sad old pensioner comforted in his our deeply depressing mid winter and
at their every stumble is all very well, but living room watching four games a day. we are a period of Qatar time added on
it’s a bag of crisps versus the deli counter. They tried to shame us, allegedly away from the shortest day and a u turn
Heroic failure is a Scottish specialty act, politically correct doughnuts pouring guilt springwards again.
the rock on which our national game is all over us at the prospect of watching a And that’s without us.  Just gonnae no’ let
built.  But I’m getting a wee bit fed up World Cup. it happen again? Just gonnae no’?
with it. Jeezo.  I’m watching the beautiful game.  The Tartan Army have an honours degree
We haven’t been at a World Cup since Not porn. I couldn’t be bothered with it in partying and frankly the desert has no
1998 and at best that will be 28 years in the other way round.  I’m at the age now idea what it’s missing.
the desert…or not as is the case this time. if I watched an erotic movie I’d be thinking Can you imagine?
My generation assumed we had a divine how comfortable that bed looked. Altogether now: “Doha a deer….”
right to be there.  Like membership This planet has been a shambles since - Chick Young
of say, the House of Lords, where only and before- the game was invented and
-seemingly- a crime against humanity certainly during every tournament since
would get you even a yellow card. the World Cup’s birth in 1930.
Five in a row from 1974 to 1990 with a
consequent absence to see if we liked
it. Turns out we didn’t and so back we
toddled for France 98. Aye, no bother,
your old reporter assumed, that’ll be us
back on the straight and narrow.
Typical.  You bend down to accept the
medal and someone boots you up the
arse. They sent me to Korea in 2002,
Germany in 2006 and South Africa in 2010. 
But World Cups without Scotland are like
making love without kissing.

20

TOP SCOTTISH FOOTBALL BOOKSCURwehKaedw’scsakwlmeopa.luepddtiiingstigtocalmihcnhedappettueporbespfnrlSodimsceohhnuttntidnissrephgdosf.orocftotsootppb.suupaoblkrltlstisittihtlleeessrF.RfrEoEm. the TRY

BUYBEFORE YOU

ATRtnaheoOuNegttihPilDfsaiocttreeaSsCrstiatPfoHonnnrOdeEsowrRoCuesfrsTKofpnoneSercOwtfuhtsTetcUludoeIrTtmTsetpeiLrnoMregErtlteoAvsSairdcsNeeoeOcsomYeNairmveneMLvedinaIefOltoNwlarRstEobrEys.

PitchPublishing

MFAICNRSOWPIHTOHNES
short stories to various publications in my at a club who were going nowhere,
Archie Macpherson spare time which was my interest initially and who then two and half years later
in this field. I was always interested in that were European champions, which was
is a legend of Scottish side of it, and I was still playing football an incredible feat. It was also him that
broadcasting, known into my 20’s for various amateur teams, established the press conferences as we
famously for presenting so although I was teaching full time, I know them now. Waddell, as he saved
BBC Scotland’s Sportscene hadn’t divorced myself from football. I Rangers after the disaster and was a
programme. Archie has played in various positions, and as I was strong formidable figure who kept the
commentated at six World pretty fast I tended to play mostly on the ship on a steady beam as they could have
Cups and an inductee of wing. However, I was an average player, scuppered on the rocks without him. He
The Scottish Football Hall and I don’t pretend to be anything more held the club together. And Souness,
Of Fame. than that. because he changed mentalities, with
And then the break came, I did a big spending of course, which Celtic
‘Football was my first love. I was brought broadcast for the BBC, not on football, eventually had to copy.
up in Shettleston Road, in the east end of but when I was in there, they asked me to I had in and out relationships with
Glasgow, which meant I was literally three do an additional broadcast which was on managers. Eventually I travelled the
or four minutes from Greenfield Park football, and that was it. I worked for the world with Stein, and we had a good
which was Shettleston Juniors ground. BBC, while I was still teaching, and also relationship. I had good relationships with
I think Greenfield Park is still there, but when I became a headmaster, which was them all, but I also had arguments and
they are radically changed now, and the for a seven-year period before I actually conflicts with them all too. My biggest fall
clubs been renamed Glasgow United. joined the BBC full time. I started at The out with a manager was with Fergie who
BBC in 1962 and didn’t leave my post as a famously fell out with me, he had been
I was fortunate as I saw all my early headteacher and become full time at the a good friend of mine, but he didn’t like
football there, or up Shettleston hill, BBC until 1969. I was twenty-five years some comments that I had made about
where there were four or five pitches, and with the BBC, yes, I went to other places his goalkeeper and blew a gasket.
I watched a lot of games on these ash after that when I went freelance, which Regarding stand out players, Jim Baxter
pitches. I probably saw Tommy Docherty was greatly to my benefit as it opened instantly comes to mind, he was a cabaret
there before I saw him at Shettleston new horizons, but without diminishing the act, not just a footballer.
Juniors, as he played a lot of games value of working with other organisations, Jimmy Johnstone for his shear instinctive
locally, and I did see him make his debut my identity was really with the BBC. skills and being a hell of a nice guy. He
for Shettleston Juniors. He only played When I worked with The BBC it gave me had some terrible times because of drink,
for them for about four or five games the chance to travel the world, I covered but I think this was because of his good-
before Celtic signed him. Of all the major 18 World Cup games for Scotland. I natured character that led to his lapses,
Scottish figures he was the first I ever saw, think Scotland had the best squad in but he was a brilliant player. I visited
and that’s why he is the first chapter in my 1974, but regarding stand out moments him when he was ill with motor neurone
new book titled ‘Touching the Heights’ obviously 1978 in Mendoza, Argentina, disease, which was devastating but also
which is personal portraits of Scottish where Scotland played against Holland is inspiring as I never saw him anything else
sporting greats who I had the privilege of up there. We had been in abject misery but chirpy and upbeat.
watching live. because what had happened in the Kenny Dalglish of course, with his great
I had a career in education long before previous games versus Peru and Iran, and goals. John Greig for keeping Rangers
I had anything to do with broadcasting, then there was the drugs scandal with going when they were in a terrible state
although it was writing and sending off Willie Johnston, and I was highly dejected and Celtic were winning all these league
at that time. We were all demotivated at titles, but it was John Greig who held
22 that time and wanted back home as we Rangers together on the pitch, and he
felt that Scotland wasn’t going to do was an inspiring figure for Scotland too.
anything. And then suddenly we had this
marvellous performance by Scotland and
perhaps the most iconic goal of all time,
with Archie Gemmill. So that moment is
the one that immediately comes to mind,
but there are many other great moments
too. My commentary from that goal was
used in a film and when we qualified at
Anfield the commentary was used on Rod
Stewarts record. However, many of these
World Cup records I’m sure never saw the
light of day due to the disappointment of
Argentina!
Regarding Scottish managers, there is
three who stand out for me, and they are
Jock Stein, Willie Waddell and Graeme
Souness. They were three men who
effectively changed from an established
orthodox conservative approach to
football and dealt with circumstances
in their own way. Stein as he took over

They were all marvellous players. Beyond in my tracks, had an impact on me, and who
Scotland a few names come to mind. There’s I could never forget. Some of the names I
Pele, who I interviewed a couple of times, he cover in the book people might not know,
was a brilliant player. All the Brazilians who and that’s why I wrote about them. They
I saw around that time were superb. But are not all from the football world, 75% of
currently I think Messi comes to mind, and them are football people, but I’ve also gone
then of course Maradona, both tremendous into boxing, golf and athletics. My great
players. The goal that Maradona scored hero was the boxer Jackie Patterson, the
against England in Mexico in 1986 was one world flyweight champion who I saw live
of the best goals I’ve seen at the world cup. at Hampden in front of 60,00 fans. All the
On the broadcasting front there was Arthur people in my book I have watched them
Montford who famously presented STV’s live. The football people are there because
Scotsport at the same time I was hosting they made huge impacts on me, and at the
Sportcene. He and I were both rivals and start of the pandemic, I just got stuck into
friends. We got on well but of course we writing it and putting down my thoughts.
wanted to out do each other in terms of Fergie is in there too. Despite our fall
audiences, but there were never ever any out, we had had a wonderful relationship,
harsh words between us. Later, I went to we confided about a lot of things about
work on Scotsport and had a very good Scottish football, much of which I’ve kept
relationship with STV. They brought me back to myself, and he’s in the book because he
from when I was working with Eurosport with was a huge impact on me. Jim Mclean is
which I was eternally grateful for. another big name included, and he was
Regarding no longer commentating on one of the most interesting men I ever
games, there are aspects of the game I don’t met in football, he had a brilliant football
miss at all, as I got fed up with the narrow brain, knew a good player and how to
mindlessness, parochial bitterness that select a good team and of course was a
existed and still exists now in Scotland, and controversial character as well.
you can be sucked into that, and I believe we Observing the Scotland current set up, I
should be bigger than that. But then again, back the manager however I know it’s not
I can sometimes miss it, but just every now just about him, it’s about the players, and
and again. if you’ve got good players you’ll succeed’
I have written several books, however the
inspiration behind my new book was that the Archie was speaking
idea was that I would write about some of the with Iain Emerson
people that made me think, that stopped me

23

We maybe living in uncertain times with It is a remarkable effort by TASA, who Speaking of what the events mean
the cost of living and energy prices rely on the generosity of the Tartan Army to TASA, Clark said: “having no big
going through the roof, but that hasn’t to carry out their work. corporate sponsors, we rely totally on
stopped supporters doing their bit for TASA Secretary Clark Gillies said: the generosity of our fans, and events
worthwhile causes elsewhere. “We don’t have a corporate sponsor, we hold like our charity nights are more
The Tartan Army Sunshine Appeal so the money we receive is purely from our way of giving back to them as a
have continued their incredible work individual donations, functions and ‘thank you’, and to put names to faces
by making donations to children’s the sale of memorabilia donated to us. and such from those who have dug
charities across the globe. The recent There was one person who done a bike deep in their sporrans over the years
£4000 donation to Turkish charity ride from Wembley to Hampden and to help us continue making a difference
Rengarenk Umutlar Dernegi (Colourful raised £30,000, which is amazing. We everywhere we go”.
Hopes Association), a group who fight can’t thank everyone enough for their Famous Tartan Army Magazine wishes
for children’s rights and freedoms with generosity.” TASA all the best with their ongoing
rights-based activities to ensure equal Going into their 20th year, TASA work.
opportunities for them, was their 93rd have more events up their sleeve to Check out their website and shop at
consecutive goodwill gesture since their encourage more donations in order to www.tasunshineappeal.scot
formation in 2003. continue their great work, with children’s
The Turkish donation followed one of charities in Norway, Spain, Cyprus and
the same amount to Ukrainian charity Georgia set to benefit.
Bebiko, who look after a group of They begin 2023 with their annual
children with Down’s syndrome and Nod to Burns night at the Ukrainian
provide support to their families. I’m Community Centre, Edinburgh
addition, up to four boxes of goods such (https://facebook.com/events/s/nod-
as pens, pencils and colouring in books to-burns-23/567209191379519/)
being shipped to the charity, which was on 28 January, before their 20th
gratefully received. Anniversary special on 1 April at
Hampden, with details to come in due
course. TASA welcome anyone who
wishes to donate prizes for either event.

24

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