Let's back Strachan and Co... all the way to the World Cup

I used to serve the occasional shift in goals or defence when my pals and I had a kick about at the park but, other than that, I can’t say it’s ever been something I’ve enjoyed.

To tell you the truth, I’m much more of a rugby girl – compared to the atmosphere at football games, rugby’s just a lot more positive.

However, in recent weeks, I’ve started to see football, particularly in Scotland, in a new light – mostly because of our somewhat unexpected success in the World Cup qualifiers so far.

It doesn’t take a football expert to understand that the Scottish game isn’t exactly great.

I know Strachan’s side haven’t exactly excelled internationally so it’s a surprise when the national team actually start to win things. I was so surprised, in fact, that I made a blunder live on air earlier this week!

Just to put the record straight, Scotland’s hopes ARE still alive for World Cup qualification and not “no longer alive”.

The words were there in front of me but somehow I just couldn’t believe that they’d actually won.

Nevertheless people in Scotland, regardless if they support football or not, seem to have a wee bit more of a spring in their step now our hopes of World Cup qualification are still there.

On Monday night we were in the pub watching the game and the atmosphere was really nice – much nicer than during a cup or league match. People even clapped after the game ended, which I couldn’t help but smile at.

Scotland probably won’t qualify for Russia next year but it doesn’t hurt us to keep our hopes high. You never know, Strachan’s side might just surprise us all!