Adopting a team ethos can help us beat coronavirus

Sir, – Scotland result against Serbia was superb, even with the wobbles, it was a nervous listen.

Well done to all of the team and backroom staff, it has lifted the spirits of us all.

It shows what can happen when a team enjoys good coaching, clear guidance and are asked to execute a game plan which they believe in.

Yes, they, the players also have the talent.

It seems Steve Clark’s cool head and honest talking style of management is bringing out the best in our men’s team.

A nod also to the ladies’ coaches Ann Signeul/Shelly Kerr and rugby’s Gregor Townsend, as they show the same traits.

We don’t seem to need the ‘calls to arms’ and ‘remember the history’ of that great run from 1974 to 1998, all we need is to focus on giving good guidance, work hard on improving our skills and value the effort and commitment of team members and support staff. In our own lives these ‘team’ goals would be excellent attributes to seek and cherish, rather than the ‘hustle and hassle’ of the individual ‘getting ahead’ against the rest of the pack.

It is however difficult when many things are measured against the individual.

The present Covid-19 infection rates are a challenge we all need to work together to solve, as a team.

Collectively, the adherence to the simple rules and the clear game plan is important.

Being an Angus resident and being told the R-rate is likely to be 1.4 to 1.8, is concerning, as Tier 4 is not far off.

The central belt is staring at Tier 4, and I hope boisterous victory celebrations for Thursday night’s victory will not tip them over the edge.

Let’s take a lesson from our football team, keep cool heads, work for each other, stay focused and execute the plan. Alistair Ballantyne. Birkhill, Angus.