The Tartan Army’s World Cup footballing dream may be over, but for the 40-strong Jailer Tours group from Perth—and beyond—the memories will linger forever. They partied from Boston to New York, with many continuing the festivities in New Orleans before heading to Miami Beach for Scotland’s final qualifying match against Brazil.
Scotland's World Cup Campaign
Scotland were sitting top of Group C after winning 1-0 against Haiti and suffering the same score reversal against Morocco. Despite shipping three goals to the former World Cup holders in their final qualifying game, there were still faint hopes that the dark blues could advance as one of the eight best third-placed qualifiers. But they had to rely on a set of freakish results from other teams going their way. None did—and the 2-1 victory by Croatia over Ghana sealed Scotland’s fate. It also provoked the resignation of head coach Steve Clarke just minutes after the team was eliminated.
Jailer Tours Experience
The Jailer Tours foot soldiers, well used to past disappointments, refused to let events on and off the pitch get them down. They helped drink many pubs dry, particularly in Boston, won over the hearts of locals, and were complimented by police in New York for their friendly and exemplary behaviour. Local businesses were delighted to welcome the tartan-clad Scots, and the tills in Bourbon Street pubs, New Orleans, and Miami hostelries rang merrily as the thirsty Scots descended en masse.
Official JT pipers Stewart McBain and Jimmy Wardlaw, who celebrated his birthday during the trip, were expecting to appear on Brazilian TV after being pictured with the gaudily-coloured official South American side’s mascot. “A black truck with tinted windows suddenly stopped where we were playing and a guy with a suit asked if the mascot could be filmed, dancing to one of our pipe tunes,” explained Stewart. “We were delighted to oblige. The mascot was very light on its feet and I’m sure it would make wonderful television for them back home.”
Activities and Attractions
On days without group matches, many attractions were lined up to keep JT fans entertained—and out of the pub for at least part of the day. These included a walking tour, kayaking, and a baseball match in Boston. There was also a popular river cruise aboard the Liberty Belle in New York, with regular trips up and down the Hudson River from Pier 36.
What began as a normal baseball game between the Boston Red Sox and the Texas Rangers quickly erupted into tartan-fuelled euphoria as thousands of Scotland supporters converged on Fenway Park. Deafening renditions of Flower of Scotland, as well as chants of “Super John McGinn” and other favourite players, echoed round the huge stadium. Such was the impact that the Red Sox ground was officially re-named the “Boston Tartan Sox” after the Scotland take-over, with that name emblazoned on the huge scoreboard for all to see.
Fans' Reflections
Some of the Jailers shared their thoughts on the trip-of-a-lifetime. Steve Brown said: “Only on a Jailers Tour trip could you enjoy sharing an Airbnb with eight guys and two showers! Difficult to summarise as there were so many hilarious and enjoyable moments. Absolutely fantastic trip, so many great memories.”
Andy English said: “I’m not sure who had the best time—Scotland supporters or the Bostonians. From the moment we met up with the Jailer Tours crowd, and the advance party to our last meal, also in the Bard and Harp, we had an absolute blast. The two match days were incredible. To think we were half-way across the World and 40-odd JTs had arrived at the same pub for a few magical hours was something not to be forgotten.”
Alas, all good things must come to an end. The Jailer Tours contingent safely made it home, many nursing hangovers and trying to combat jet lag after touching down in Edinburgh last Saturday. The American dream may be over, but the memories live on.
