Islam Feruz was the star of the show as Scotland’s u-17 side drew 0-0 with Italy this afternoon.
The striker was one of six Celtic players in Ross Mathie’s side that earned a credible draw against the host nation in the final qualifying group for the European Championship Finals which will be held in Serbia in May.
Feruz was picked out as the star man by uefa.com with Mathie pleased with the point that puts Scotland in with a great chance of progressing with only the group winners going on to Serbia.
The Scotland coach said: “If somebody had offered me a draw before the game I would have been happy, but I am delighted with the way we played – we passed the ball well and tried to create chances, but just lacked that bit of luck that everybody needs.
“I said you cannot afford to lose your first match and I think six points could take you through.”
Feruz, Joe Chalmers, Marcus Fraser, John Herron and Lewis Kidd were joined by Celtic team-mate Mo Yaqub who replaced the injured Robbie McIntyre after 20 minutes.
Scotland enjoyed the bulk of possession but had their work cut out to break down the Italian defence although Feruz did twice come close to putting Scotland in front.
In the second half it was another Celt, Kidd who carried most threat to the home side.
“This is one point gained for us,” Italian coach Pasquale Salerno said afterwards. “We were not effective enough in the first half and we pressed more in the second half, but were unable to make the breakthrough.
“Our second game is now going to be crucial. Scotland are a physically strong side and you’ve got to give them credit.”
On Friday Scotland play Slovakia who lost 1-0 to the Czech Republic in their opening match.
Scotland (4-5-1): Hamilton; Fraser, Chalmers, Grimmer, McIntyre (Yaqub 20), Herron, Polworth, McLeod (Slater 32), Kidd, Kennedy (Smith 55); Feruz.
SUBS Wightman, Naismith, Erwin, Lindsay.
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Celtic away support voted amongst the best in Britain.
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