Q. ” Who scored for Scotland without kicking a ball?”

A. ” Joe Craig”

Correct. Joe Craig came on as a sub in the 76th minute in a friendly v Sweden on April 27th, 1977. Within a few seconds he headed in Scotland’s third and therefore had not “kicked the ball”. Sadly, it would be Joe’s only Scotland appearance as it would be for fellow Celtic player Ronnie Glavin. Perhaps the worst time to make your International debut is in a match that would ultimately be the Manager’s last as Willie Ormond soon took on a post at Hearts.

The match also saw the end of their Scotland careers to John Blackley of Hibs and Willie Pettigrew of Motherwell. Centre Half Blackley had been first capped in 1973 v Czechoslovakia in Bratislavia as Scotland lost 1-0 but having already qualified for World Cup 1974. Blackley would make an appearance during the Finals, playing in the opening game against Zaire in the Westfalenstadion, Dortmund. Ally McLeod would continue to select Blackley for some of his squads with the likes of Buchan, McQueen, Forsyth and Burns available he did not play again.

Willie Pettigrew like Joe Craig made a quick burst into the International scene, netting the only goal v Switzerland at Hampden in April 1976 after only two minutes of play. Willie also netted in his second game too as Scotland beat Wales 3-1. Overall he gained a total of five caps.

Willie Pettigrew on his debut v Switzerland.

Full Scotland line up – Alan Rough (Partick Thistle), Danny McGrain (Celtic), Tom Forsyth (Rangers), John Blackley (Hibernian), Willie Donachie (Manchester City), Ronnie Glavin & Kenny Dalglish (both Celtic, Captain), Asa Hartford (Manchester City), Kenny Burns (Birmingham City), Willie Pettigrew (Motherwell), Willie Johnston (West Bromwich Albion).

Subs Used – Sandy Jardine of Rangers replaced Glavin in the 50th minute

– David Narey of Dundee United replaced Blackley in the 76th minute

– Joe Craig of Celtic replaced Burns also in the 76th minute.

Score – Scotland 3, Sweden 1 at Hampden Park, Glasgow Attendance – 22,654.

Scorers – Scotland – Hartford (30), Dalglish (55), Craig (76)

Sweden – Wendt – (50).