Murphy strike accounts for Belarus
Friday, October 9, 2009
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Scotland 1-0 Belarus
An injury-time goal by Jamie Murphy gave Billy Stark's side all three points against Belarus and a share of first place in Group 10.
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A goal by substitute Jamie Murphy two minutes into added time gave Scotland all three points against Belarus and a share of first place in UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 10.
Early chances
After a promising start by the visitors, Scotland took charge with Barry Bannan and David Gray dictating the play in midfield. The first opening fell to David Goodwillie on 12 minutes, but the striker lifted his shot over from close range. Paul Hanlon and Chris Maguire then tested goalkeeper Illya Gavrilov mid-way through the first half and just before the interval Kevin McDonald almost broke the deadlock, heading just wide of the post.
Three points clear
The second half was a scrappier affair and while Billy Stark's side continued to dominate proceedings it looked as though they would be frustrated by a resolute Belarus defence. However, with time almost up, substitute Murphy cut in from the right before drilling a low shot past Gavrilov to put Scotland on nine points from four games, level at the top of the section with Austria. Belarus, having had their winning start ended, are three behind with a game in hand. Scotland go to Azerbaijan next on 14 November, while Belarus host Albania on Wednesday.