Italy survive Scotland surge

Italy coach Pasquale Salerno said: "This is one point gained for us," after the UEFA European Under-17 Championship elite round Group 1 hosts drew their opener with Scotland.

Striker Islam Feruz caused plenty of problems for the Italy defence with his pace in the first half and had the better of the chances but the home side held out. On Friday the Azzurrini take on the Czech Republic, fresh from beating Scotland's next opponents Slovakia 1-0.

Feruz twice went close to breaking the deadlock before the break, first seeing his shot blocked by Marco Piredda and then racing clear of Daniele Rugani, who only just managed to recover his ground to make a lunging challenge. Italy managed to cope better with Feruz in the second half, although this only gave Lewis Kidd more room. However, the best chances of the second 40 minutes fell to the hosts, Emanuele Gatto's header saved by Jack Hamilton and Daniel Abbraciante narrowly missing the target with his shot.

The Scotland manager Ross Mathie said: "If somebody had offered me a draw before the game I would have been happy, but I am delighted with the way we played – we passed the ball well and tried to create chances, but just lacked that bit of luck that everybody needs. I said you cannot afford to lose your first match and I think six points could take you through."

Salerno added: "This is one point gained for us. We were not effective enough in the first half and we pressed more in the second half, but were unable to make the breakthrough. Our second game is now going to be crucial. Scotland are a physically strong side and you've got to give them credit. We knew the fans would come out in numbers because they are attached to the national team here and we were glad to have them behind us."