The Tartan Army has made a triumphant return to the World Cup stage, descending on Boston in full force for Scotland's opening match against Haiti. After 28 years of heartbreak, supporters have been celebrating in style, enjoying lunchtime beers and soaking up the electric atmosphere.
Fans Flood Boston Streets
The Scotland invasion of Boston is underway, with fans in bucket hats and kilts visible across the city. Shouts of "No Scotland, No Party" and "We'll Be Coming" echo from every corner, leaving locals both baffled and amused. With temperatures soaring to 32°C, excited supporters have been keeping hydrated with plenty of lager.
Fan Stories from the Frontline
Stuart Innes, 56, originally from Inverkeithing, Fife, now lives in Minneapolis. He met his sons Ethan, 19, and Elliot, 17, at the airport as they headed into the city center. Stuart told the Record: "It's really exciting. The last week's been going in slow motion. Now that we're here, we can't wait for the match. I got tickets on the last open ballot. I'm going for a 3-1 win. Come on Scotland!"
Paul McKay, 56, from Aberdeen, Matt Lawson, 29, from Aviemore, Don Lawson, and Kenny Bell, 58, both from Inverness, were enjoying the sunshine at the Dubliner Irish Bar. Don, owner of Jonny Foxes bar, said: "We flew via Amsterdam. Everything went to plan. We couldn't have missed this for the world." Matt added: "There's a lot of Scotland fans at the hotel, it's good craic. We've all got tickets. I think we're looking at a 3-1 win."
William Mason, 67, Cathy Coban, 69, Derek Coban, 71, all from Aberdeen, and Ray Wilkie, 79, were nearby. Ray, from Montrose, said: "It took us ages to get here, but now we are here it feels amazing. We paid stupid prices for tickets - $800 a pair - but after waiting 28 years, it will be worth it! I think 2-1, Shankland to get at least one."
Louise Reid, 48, and Pamela Hamilton, 45, both from Airdrie, were dancing in the streets. Pamela said: "We've been recovering from jetlag, but the vibes are amazing. The weather has been unbearable, but we don't get the sun in Scotland. It's been lovely! We're confident for a 4-0 win."
Terry Higgins, 42, Steven Mikkleson, 41, and Ryan Milne, 44, arrived last night. Terry, an engineer from Saltcoats, said: "We flew from Newcastle to Paris, then Boston. We're trying to soak up the atmosphere." Ryan, a glass artist from Dundee, added: "We got tickets for the Haiti match. The prices were crazy, but when Scotland qualified, we knew we had to be there. Money comes and goes, memories stay forever."
