Scotland stalemate secures cup
Saturday, May 13, 2006
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Japan 0-0 Scotland Walter Smith's side lifted the Kirin Cup in Japan after a goalless draw against the hosts, having already defeated Bulgaria 5-1.
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Japan 0-0 Scotland
Scotland's preparations for the onset of this autumn’s UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifiers took another positive step in Japan as a goalless draw against the hosts saw Walter Smith's side claim the Kirin Cup.
Many 'positives'
The Scots spent much of the game on the back foot, with Akira Kaji coming closest to scoring when he rattled the post with a vicious drive midway through the first half. Former Feyenoord midfielder Shinji Ono was denied by Neil Alexander and Mitsuo Ogasawara's shot was cleared off the line by Gary Caldwell as Scotland held on. "I can't speak highly enough of the players," manager Smith told the BBC after the triumph. "I'm just pleased for everyone, we have our pride intact and we have taken a lot of positives from the trip."
