One card Ryan didn’t want on a happy birthday
Ryan Porteous enjoyed many happy returns to Scotland as he picked up his first cap at Hampden on the day that he turned 24.
It was the Watford defender’s second appearance for the national team, and yesterday’s performance was just as assured as the one he produced in the draw against Ukraine that sealed top spot in the Nations League.
He said: “It was a lovely way to spend my birthday.
“I’ve been at international camps on the majority of my birthdays. But I don’t think many people get to play for Scotland on their birthday.
“It is something that I will be able to cherish.
“There were a few nerves beforehand, but it was special hearing the national anthem.
“When you are growing up playing football on the street, you dream of moments like that in front of 50,000 fans.
“As birthdays go, that is certainly right up there.”
One card Porteous didn’t want was the yellow one shown by the referee in the 75th minute that leaves him one away from suspension.
But the former Hibs player believes the victory against Cyprus was exactly what Scotland needed.
It was the first time we’ve kicked off a European Championships qualifying campaign with a win since 2006.
Porteous went on: “If you would have said beforehand we would score three goals and keep a clean sheet, I would have bitten your hand off.
“On paper, Cyprus are a team we maybe should be beating. But they are tough opponents. They have had some good results in friendlies recently, and they beat Israel 3-2 away from home.
“We knew they had quality all over the pitch, and could hurt us.
“It was a professional performance and then Scott Mctominay comes on and gets us over the line.
“Spain will be completely different, but we wanted to start this group with a win and a clean sheet,” said Porteous.
“We are a team who want to set new records. We are delighted to do that but we know Spain is going to be tough. We will need to stick to the game plan.”