The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Gutsy Saints shine in under-21s draw
St Johnstone fans can toast another double after two McDiarmid Park stars shone in Scotland under-21s’ gutsy 1-1 draw against Turkey.
Promising goalkeeper Ross Sinclair was handed his debut, while Glenn Middleton netted the opening goal of the game – his fourth international strike at this level.
Dundee midfielder Max Anderson was rewarded for his progress at Dens Park with a maiden appearance from the bench and Dunfermline loan star Kai Kennedy was a buzzbomb of energy on the flanks.
Dundee United teenager Chris Mochrie – one of the youngest members of the group at just 18 years – did not make the match-day squad, but will have lapped up a valuable experience.
Despite Enis Destan’s equaliser, the draw ensures a solid start in Scotland’s bid to qualify for Euro 2023, with Belgium, Denmark and Kazakhstan making up a testing section.
Courier Sport puts the Tayside and Fife-based talents under the microscope.
GLENN MIDDLETON
The most experienced member of this squad, the match-winner.
The St Johnstone favourite – winning his 17th cap at this level – turned in a super performance alongside James Scott in attack, tormenting the Turks with his direct running and willingness to shoot on sight.
Middleton, 21, was similarly effective without the ball, relentlessly pressing the hosts during an all-action display.
His opening goal showcased composure and technique as he stroked home an Adam Montgomery delivery flush on the volley. Only a wonder-save denied the winger a dramatic late winner.
ROSS SINCLAIR
Sinclair, 20, was handed his debut ahead of Lewis Budinauckas and Harry Stone, underlining the remarkable strength in depth St Johnstone possess between the sticks.
The Scone-born stopper – who has enjoyed loan stints with Brechin and Cowdenbeath – was solid.
His distribution was excellent, repeatedly finding Scott with pinpoint diagonal passes, and was left with no chance when a defensive mix-up allowed Destan to fire home a late leveller from close-range.
KAI KENNEDY
If Dunfermline are to kickstart their floundering campaign, one suspects this Scotland under-21 debutant will be key to that revival.
The diminutive winger, on loan at East End Park from Rangers, was a bundle of energy on the right side of Scotland’s 4-4-2, carrying out his defensive duties ably and producing a couple of delightful turns.
Kennedy, 19, will undoubtedly have more joy in the final third in other outings, such is his undoubted talent, and he was withdrawn after fading in the second period.
Nevertheless, this selfless showing underlined his willingness to do the dirty work.
MAX ANDERSON
Entered the fray with 15 minutes left on the clock, replacing Scott, and immediately tucked in behind Middleton.
The Dens Park starlet, 20, did not look overawed in his first outing at under21 level and immediately sought to make vertical passes and burst forward.
Anderson’s arrival was key to a strong finale from the visitors – Turkey had been firmly in the ascendancy in the prior 20 minutes – and Scotland passed up three passable opportunities to claim all three points.