Scotland drew 2-2 with Nigeria last night at Craven Cottage in a match that was watched through many suspicious eyes.
On Tuesday it emerged that the National Crime Agency were concerned that the game had been targeted for fixers with Gordon Strachan refusing to discuss the issue.
Match fixing has become an increasing problem in recent times and is more associated with trivial events such as bookings and free-kicks rather than the result.
A number of English based players have been questioned by the police over claims that they were involved in incidents to ensure that they got booked or sent off.
Last season the SFA sent out a softly softly message on gambling when Ian Black of Sevco was given a three match ban and fined a week’s wages after admitting to betting on over 150 Scottish football matches including a number that he played in.
Following that revelation Ibrox boss Ally McCoist banished a list of players and OFFICIALS who he claimed were involved in football betting and said that he was unaware of betting restrictions on players despite PFA Scotland leader Fraser Wishart visiting the club to explain the regulations.
The SFA refused to investigate McCoist’s claim although Stewart Regan claimed that he was concerned over some fans providing commentary from lower league fixtures to Asian gangs which could result in bookmakers being effected.
Scotland’s 2-2 draw with Nigeria certainly wasn’t without incident with two own goals and two Scotland ‘goals’ disallowed- one of which saw Nigerian keeper Austin Ejide throw the ball into his net under pressure from Grant Hanley.
Charlie Mulgrew had already put Scotland in front at that stage but Nigeria drew level when a shot from Michael Uchebo that seemed destined for the corner flag struck Hanley and flew over Allan McGregor into the net.
An own goal from Azubuike Egwuekwe restored Scotland’s lead in the 54th minute with the defender sending an Alan Hutton cross into the net from close range.
Shaun Maloney looked to have increased Scotland’s lead midway through the second half but his effort was disallowed for offside before Nigeria equalised in the 90th minute with a low shot from Uche Nwofor in the final minute.
There are fears that attempts will be made to influence some matches during the World Cup with bets available on matters such as bookings, sending’s off, corners and free-kicks.
Former Rangers (IL) and Hearts director Campbell Ogilvie is the president of the SFA.