Scotland the Brave

by Clinton Ooi

Scottish football is on the rise. That is the theme that has dominated the European football scene for most part of this season so far. The national team is punching above its weight, defeating 2000 European Champions France home and away. Only a surprising 2-0 reverse in Georgia has put the Scottish express on hold.

Rangers are undefeated and equal top with Barcelona with 7 points in the UEFA Champions League, having just squeezed out a gritty draw with the Catalans in Ibrox while Celtic caused a major upset against the champions Milan at the death on Match Day II. That means Scottish Premier League Clubs have managed to hold the last two champions of Europe to a combined total of 1 point and 1 goal. That is nothing to be sneezed at.

The pragmatics would argue the Scots have rode their luck while the pessimists would say Scotland has not yet qualified and still face the impending showdown against the Italians. A win or draw with the Georgians could have afforded Scotland with a bit of breathing place, but where would the element of drama fit in?

Back in the Champions League and it would now be possible for both SPL representatives to qualify for the knockout stages. That would be history making stuff. However, let us not get ahead of ourselves. Just like ESPN host Derek Rae has been doing, getting excited but keeping it real. As we alluded to before Scotland has not yet booked their place in Euro 2008 while the Rangers and Celtic express are far from reaching Central Station.

So while many are waiting or predicting for the Scots to lose their way, the eternal optimist reckons this could be a potential Scottish hattrick on the cards. Watch this space…