Scots victory has a Saints edge to it

Magennis turns on the style to help boost playoff hopes

Kyle Magennis and Co have been hailed for producing “the best performance” in Scot Gemmill’s tenure as Scotland manager.

St Mirren midfielder Magennis was handed his debut for Scotland Under- 21s as they produced a great performance to topple the Dutch 2-1 in their own backyard.

He turned in an impressive display in 90 minutes as he lined up alongside former Saints teammate Stevie Mallan in the heart of the midfield.

On the back of last year’s victory over the Oranje in Paisley, a Fraser Hornby double was enough to clinch success and leave Scotland with a real shot at a playoff place.

The four best second-placed sides will qualify for the European Championship playoffs with matches including an away trip to Ukraine and home encounter with runaway group leaders and rivals England still to come for the Scots.

Boss Gemmill revealed his pride in his Scotland Under-21 team, who deservedly defeated the Dutch on their own patch.

He said: “I’d say that’s the best we’ve played since I’ve been Under-21s manager.

“You can’t underestimate how hard it is to win in the Netherlands. I don’t think too many Scotland teams have done that.

“It was really impressive. The boys showed they can execute a game plan and the new players showed they can be trusted at this level.

“I’m so proud of the team – to play under that scrutiny and produce the tactical discipline required to win.

“We knew the way the Netherlands would play and that we’d get chances on the counterattack.

“We needed to defend well but the goal we conceded was a deflected free-kick.

“I want my players to play with an edge and they delivered.

“Fraser’s first goal was a big moment from a big player in a big game. We’re starting to develop players who can do that.”