Scotland did not get remotely close to creating history at the World Cup in North America, according to Hugh Keevins. History in football must be associated with valour, exceptional achievement, and an overwhelming sense of pride, none of which were evident in Scotland's displays in Boston and Miami.
Fans as Tourist Attraction Not Enough
While the Tartan Army have been beguiled by the home of the brave and the land of the free, and their good humour has made them adored by all nations, fans being a tourist attraction is not enough. If America hadn't been such a distraction, supporters might have been more demanding and critical of their national side.
Historic Achievements vs. World Cup Failure
Celtic's 1967 European Cup win, Rangers' 1972 European Cup Winners Cup triumph, and Aberdeen's 1983 victory over Real Madrid are examples of true historic achievements. In contrast, Scotland's matches against Haiti, Morocco, and Brazil were a failure to rise to the occasion on a gigantic scale. An own goal to beat Haiti and two woeful defeats against Morocco and Brazil exposed some players as sub-standard at the highest levels.
Clarke and Mulraney Under Scrutiny
Manager Steve Clarke must absorb the awfulness of his team's displays. SFA president Mike Mulraney, who delivered a Gettysburg Address-style defence of Clarke before the tournament, now faces questions. Mulraney said: "I knew I was right the day I appointed him. I knew I was right when he qualified us for a major tournament. I know I'm right on the days it goes wrong." His decision to extend Clarke's contract by four years before a ball was kicked in the States will now be the subject of wider debate.
Back to the Drawing Board
Scotland have gone back to the drawing board after a dismal exercise in self-delusion. The spine-tingling realisation of the extent to which they are distant from the highest echelons of the game is now clear.
