Daily Mail

SCOTS WIN BUT NEED A FAVOUR

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SCOTLAND gave themselves a World Cup lifeline — but still need England to do them a favour by beating Slovakia if they are to finish second in Group F. First-half goals from Stuart Armstrong and Andy Robertson set them on their way in one of the best performanc­es of the campaign. And James McArthur wrapped up victory when he punished some poor defending to fire home from close range in the second half. Gordon Strachan’s side had made a slow start and were fortunate that Arvydas Novikovas missed a good chance, while goalkeeper Craig Gordon pulled off a

fine save to tip over a free kick from the former Hearts striker. But Armstrong’s superb header after 25 minutes from a Leigh Griffiths corner settled Scottish nerves. Liverpool defender Robertson then showed a touch of class as he curled a left-foot shot high into the top corner. Strachan, who started with six from Celtic, said: ‘They are playing together in top games, understand­ing what it needs to be a top player, the bravery you need. Add that to the other guys, everybody joined in.’

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