Raghav Maheshwari

Kieran Tierney marks return from injury with last-man tackle for Scotland

2022 FIFA World Cup, Arsenal, Kieran Tierney

The Scots had a triumphant visit to Moldova as they picked a convincing 2-0 victory over the hosts, thereby strengthening their chances of playing in Qatar 2022.

Midfielder Nathan Patterson put up quite a show, scoring Scotland’s first with a textbook left-footed strike at the 37th minute to put the visitors ahead. The Patterson show continued as he provided a lovely assist to striker Che Adams who required a mere tap-in to put his side firmly in control of the game.

While fans have been largely appreciative of the efforts of Patterson and Adams, defender Kieran Tierney too has been showered with plaudits for thwarting the opponent from making it to the scoresheet.

A perfect evening almost turned to dust for Patterson who conceded a penalty at the 74th-minute mark, owing to a crystal clear hand-ball offence by the midfielder. However, the spot-kick did not beat Craig Gordon who pulled out a magical save for his side. However, the danger was far from gone, as the ball had fallen kindly for Vadim Rata with the keeper nowhere to be found.

The Moldovans still couldn’t manage to open their account as Arsenal left-back Kieran Tierney performed a robust tackle on his rival which was timed to perfection, preventing the opponent from taking the shot at the gaping goal. 

Tierney, who was forced out of action in mid-October, having hurt his left ankle in Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace, didn’t think twice before putting his body at risk.  

Tierney was thus rightfully hailed for his tenacity which bailed his side out from a tumultuous situation as the Scotsmen picked up the points, taking another step towards a possible World Cup Qualification.