Irish Daily Mirror

DRAC TO THE FUTURE FOR SCOT ARCHER

- BY ALAN WILSON

SCOTTISH GOALKEEPER­S used to be nicknamed “Dracula” – because they disintegra­ted at the sight of a cross.

But in Jordan Archer, the

Tartan Army may have one they can really “Count” on in future.

The Millwall keeper (above) produced a man-of-the-match display at newly-promoted Blackburn to ensure his side left with a point to remain unbeaten so far this season.

And Archer, 25, who kept 18 clean sheets last term, reckons more of the same for the Lions this season will allow him to add to his first senior Scottish cap.

He said: “It was nice to get recognitio­n on the internatio­nal scene (against Peru), but my main focus is Millwall – we’re trying to replicate last year’s success.

“I’d been in a few Scotland squads, and there’s two top keepers in Allan Mcgregor and Craig Gordon ahead of me, so I was pleased to get my chance.

“There’s an abundance of talent up north, so I’ve got to make sure I keep putting in good performanc­es for my club side, if I want to get called up.”

Archer produced a string of exellent saves, including two one-on-ones with Danny Graham after the break, and a spectacula­r tip-around-the-post to deny second-half sub Joe Rothwell.

And Rovers forward Graham admitted he was kicking himself in the changing room after the game for not converting his chances.

He said: “I’ve got to score those two chances I had in the second half. I’m disappoint­ed with the way we started the game, the first half as a whole, and the fact we deserved to win the game but didn’t.”

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