Fans fury at dismal draw meant it was Moldova for Berti
Kenny Miller will never forget how the Tartan Army turned on Berti Vogts and his players with a vengeance af ter misery in Moldova.
And the former Scotland striker hopes there will be no repeat when Steve Clarke’s side can clinch a World Cup play-off in Chisinau on Friday.
Mi l ler was among the Scotland players and staff who got it in the neck from furious fans as they ran the gauntlet through Chisinau Airport after a dismal 1-1 draw 17 years ago.
But special stick was reserved for German boss Vogts, who resigned three weeks later, citing the “disgraceful abuse”.
Scotland head to Moldova this week in a very different mood to that October 2004 trip following their World Cup qualifying campaign kicking off with a draw against Slovenia and defeat to Norway.
Vogts, serving a touchline ban in Chisinau, copped abuse in the stand as Steven Thompson’s goal was the only reply Scotland could muster to a Serghei Dadu opener.
And it got a lot worse later when fans confronted the flops at the airport.
Miller said: “The Tartan Army were normally very patient and supportive.
“But there was a real toxic atmosphere after that game which effectively cost Berti his job.
“I’ve never seen anything like it again. There was a bit of abuse for all of us as we walked through, there was no hiding place.
“But a lot was directed at the manager. After that, there was always only going to be one outcome. It was that bad.
“When people ask me about bad days of your playing career, that ranks up there. That would go for any player in the squad I think.”
Miller, then starring for Wolves, was personal ly frustrated by Vogts using him
as a substitute for the third game in row. However, he could only have sympathy for his manager as time ticked down on his rocky reign.
Miller, who scored 18 goals in his 69 caps, added: “I felt for Berti.
“He was actually a really good coach and a good manager. He was a decent guy with a huge CV and proven record.
“There wa s jus t a communication barrier, with the ideas in his head never quite t ranslating into performances or results.
“Ultimately, when that happens, it’s only going one way.
“He might have had more leeway if people believed it was the right thing to do and we were on the right path with the right man.
“But everyone on the flight was aware of what went on in that airport and a change was expected given the uncer tainty about the direction we were going in and another campaign fizzling out quickly.”
Miller hopes to see Che Adams hog the limelight on Friday with strike partner Lyndon Dykes absent through suspension.
He added: “I don’t think Che has got the rewards for the work he’s put in yet. I’m a big believer that will happen.
“The boys must be full of confidence, with a belief they’re on their way to play a part in something special.
“I’m fully optimistic about securing second spot.”