“Dragon’s Eye.” A Welsh Fan’s Perspective on England v Scotland

Many Wales fans would have been quietly satisfied at the outcome of this so-called “Battle of Britain.” Nobody won. That’s always good when you’re not involved.

This was the first competitive encounter between England and the Auld Enemy since Euro 96. That Gazza goal had been shown more than the Friends Reunion on UK tv in the build up to this game. Welshmen could make their own arrangements, the BBC and ITV said.

Somewhat surprisingly perhaps, Welshmen had made their own arrangements this year. Kieffer Moore, Aaron Ramsey and Connor Roberts had all found the back of the net in Baku to leave Wales in a position of relative comfort. Second in the group. Four points from two games. Undefeated. More than happy.

Welshmen of course, are hard wired not to support England. Rugby fans feel it most but it also manifests itself in the round ball game. I tell the world that I “don’t care” about England ….but secretly wear my Croatia away shirt whenever the Three Lions encounter Luka Modric.

To Welshmen of a certain age however, “supporting” Scotland does not come easy either.

Think Joe Jordan at Anfield. Think dubious penalties in Cardiff. When you live in close proximity, “noisy neighbours” can exist on either side.

So, whilst it was an exaggeration to say that we wanted both teams to loose, some people enjoying the ITV coverage on this side of Offa’s Dyke viewed the game with indifference. If pressed, we probably cheered for Scotland. The-enemy-of-your-enemy and all that…

Scotland approached this game with gusto. If it moves, pass to it. If it stands still, kick it. If England thought this would be easy, they would be sent homeward…tae think again.

Stones hit the woodwork for England. Kalvin Phillips announced himself as the new Nobby Stiles. For Scotland, ex Cardiff keeper David Marshall stood tall. It was blood and thunder all night. Croatians and Czechs watched gleefully.

Scotland were clearly in the mind to give the English a bloody nose. Others could admire the silky skills of Grealish, Sterling or Foden. Scotland simply weren’t having it. Good for them.

Harry Kane shuffled following another ineffective performance. The Golden Boot was looking some way off. (I wonder if they make the Boot in Kieffer’s size?)

The protagonists had fought themselves to a standstill. The judges could not split them in this catchweight contest.

Scotland had their first point. England, their fourth. Four points from two games. Undefeated. Less than happy.

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