Sebastien Pocognoli’s first match in charge of Scotland ended in a shared points, as his side battled to a draw against a cunning Slovenian outfit in their Nations League Group B1 opener. The Belgian tactician took over following Steve Clarke’s departure after the nation’s exit from World Cup qualification, promising a shift toward bolder, more attacking football. Such transformations rarely happen overnight, yet glimpses of his intended approach emerged once the second period got underway.
Handed rare starts, newcomers Stephen Welsh and Robbie Ure featured in the opening lineup as Scotland shook off a flat and hesitant opening period to seize control during the latter stages in the scenic Slovenian capital.
Making a comeback to the national team after a five year absence, Oliver McBurnie appeared poised to mark his seventeenth appearance with a goal after intercepting possession just outside the penalty area, facing only seasoned shot stopper Jan Oblak. Attempting to dribble past the keeper proved costly, when a simple chip or a low finish beneath him might have done the job. Such an opportunity may not present itself again, making his subsequent header, struck from close range, all the more frustrating.
That near miss seemed to ignite a spark within the team, who showed marked improvement afterward, with Aaron Hickey directing a header off target and replacement Kieron Bowie testing the goalkeeper with an effort of his own.
Concerns may have surfaced during the interval following a tense opening period, which saw Ure strike the woodwork late on, after Slovenia had a goal from Andraz Sporar disallowed for offside earlier. Yet patience, something this rebuilding process will demand, eventually paid dividends.
