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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Scotland player ratings as McGinn and Gannon-Doak difference-makers vs Haiti

John McGinn scored the only goal as Scotland beat Haiti in the World Cup (Image: PA)

Angus Gunn 6

More involved than he would have liked, albeit without being overly worked by Haiti. Spilled one cross but was bailed out by Jack Hendry clearance. Relieved to see Pierrot header fly wide as he desperately threw himself across goal.

Andy Robertson 7

The Scotland captain, like many of his team-mates, was steady if unspectacular. Did his job defensively and chose his moments to burst forward. Sent an inviting ball in towards Shankland but it was inches off the mark.

Jack Hendry 7

Really comfortable on the ball, even when Haiti seriously threatened. The most natural ball playing centre-back and showed it. Carried out his defensive duties well with few struggles. Will face tougher tests in the coming matches.

Grant Hanley 7

A solid centre-back who marshalled the backline well. Strong in the air and powerful in the physical battle. Played a large part in a clean sheet on a night Scotland were not as comfortable as they should have been. Lost Pierrot for the only time in latter stages as header flew inches wide.

Aaron Hickey 6

A slow start to the match for the full-back who was robbed of the ball within his own box in an early scare. Recovered well to play his part. Booked in the second half before being subbed after 75 minutes.

Scott McTominay 6

Bounced back from a stomach bug to make the starting XI but was not 100 per cent in Boston. So close to a magic moment after 17 minutes, but saw his effort smash the post. Uncharacteristically sloppy in moments, but such a key player and relieved pressure with some powerful ball-carrying.

Lewis Ferguson 7

Not an evening for possession but one where Ferguson did a power of running for 90 minutes. Not for the highlight reel but invaluable efforts in tackling and tracking. Had that bite necessary.

John McGinn 8

A first Scotland goalscorer at a World Cup finals in 28 years. A man for the big moments for Scotland in a game which suited him; scrappy. A real grafter in midfield and the source of much of the success in Boston. Missed big chance in second half as low drive flew just wide. Who are you calling a pub player, Roy Keane?

Ben Gannon-Doak 8

A constant threat down the right flank for Scotland. Had the Haiti defence on rollerskates with just the final ball missing. But he found Adams to lead to winner for Scotland. Brings pace and power on the wing and forced the issue. Wild celebration for winning a goal kick evidence of his efforts at both ends.

Che Adams 7

Made something happen to spark the crucial winner for Scotland. Terrific run and touch to haul Scotland forward, then saw shot saved before McGinn scored rebound. A willing runner throughout.

Lawrence Shankland 6

Largely an isolated figure for long spells. Didn’t really have a sight of goal all night and was limited in his opportunity to get involved in open play. Put in a shift tracking back when Scotland lost control for a period.

Substitutes

Lyndon Dykes (for Adams, 75) 3

Useful addition for defensive aerial duels to head clear.

Ryan Christie (for Gannon-Doak, 75) 3

Unfortunate not to start but straight into the action coming on.

Nathan Patterson (for Hickey, 75) 3

Big block shortly after coming on.

Kenny McLean (for Shankland, 82) 2

On to shore up the midfield for the final stages. Booked for high tackle, perhaps lucky to avoid a red.

Findlay Curtis (for McGinn, 82) 2

Hardly touched ball beyond one wayward cross.

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