PELLE SEES OFF SCOTS

SCOTLAND failed to register a shot on target as they fell to a 1-0 friendly defeat against Italy in Malta. Southampton striker Graziano Pelle notched the only goal after 57 minutes but it could have been worse for Scotland if former Sunderland winger Emanuele Giaccherini had shown more composure. Scotland took 70 minutes to win their first corner and almost 80 to produce an effort at goal — Bournemouth midfielder Matt Ritchie shooting wide from 18 yards after good work from Norwich’s Steven Naismith. Italy appeared to ease off after the breakthrough and a number of substitutions also affected their rhythm. Scotland — who face France on Saturday in another friendly — never looked like ending a winless run against Italy which stretches back 50 years. Last night in Malta’s National Stadium was Gianluigi Buffon’s 157th appearance for Italy. Few, if any, have been easier.