Scotland had to earn a result tonight against England to stay in the hunt for a place in the knockouts. Steve Clarke made a few changes to his starting XI that endured a 2-0 defeat versus Czech as he handed fit-again Kieran Tierney a starting status down the left-hand side of a three-man defence.
The Tartan Army started as the underdogs but showed more resilience at Wembley tonight. They had the chance to snatch a memorable victory, which they could not capitalise but must feel proud of their performance despite settling for a stalemate against one of the most fearsome opponents.
Below are the Scotland players rated in their 0-0 draw against England.
David Marshall: 7
Was lucky in the first half when John Stones’ header hit the woodwork. Made a smart save to deny Mason Mount minutes after the break. Could have tried to play it out from the back, particularly with three centre-backs in front of him.
Scott McTominay: 7.5
Started as a centre-half and his presence in deep defence earned more stability against the Three Lions’ attacking flair. Made some key interceptions and his occasional pacy runs helped Scotland form attacking transitions.
Grant Hanley: 8
Did well to contain Harry Kane who was far from his best and rarely threatened the visitors’ defensive line. Dominated aerially and was in the right place at the right time with crucial blocks and no-nonsense clearances.
Kieran Tierney: 7.5
His inclusion added more pace and variation at the back. Was sharp with his movement, denied England from threatening down the wide, also exhibited his calmness and composure while distributing from the deep.
Stephen O’Donnell: 7.5
Much better display from the Motherwell wingback who kept on combining upfront with overlapping runs, crosses and smart link-up play. Came close to finding the net, but his strike was denied spectacularly by Jordan Pickford in England goal.
Callum McGregor: 7.5
His ability to hold possession and determination to win the second ball restricted the hosts from taking control of the midfield game. Worked tirelessly to close down space leaving both Kalvin Phillips and Declan Rice frustrated in the centre of the pitch.
Billy Gilmour: 7
Was tidy with his passes. Struggled physically at times, but his vision and game reading skills helped him reclaim possession and switch the game on the flanks. Received massive plaudits from the fans while making way for Stuart Armstrong midway through the second half.
John McGinn: 8
Tried his level best to operate from behind the frontline and feed the attackers. His pressing game refrained England from staging quick build-ups from the back. Kept on drawing fouls and winning set-pieces with his swift footwork.
Andrew Robertson: 8
A captain’s display once more. He never stopped running and covered almost every blade of the grass despite featuring as a left wingback. His crosses were dealt well by the Three Lions defenders, though.
Che Adams: 6.5
His pace and power were causing menace at times, but the lack of composure and decision-making let the Tartan Army down once more in front of goal. Made way for Kevin Nisbet for the final few minutes of the contest.
Lyndon Dykes: 6
Worked hard to be a part of the build-ups. Had some half chances upfront, but the England defenders managed to keep hold of him all throughout this thrilling encounter.
Scotland Substitutes Vs England
Stuart Armstrong: 5.5
Did not make much impact in spite of being an attacking inclusion.
Kevin Nisbet: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
