Dykes strikes to give Scotland win over Slovakia

Scotland remain at the top of their Nations League group after the national team defeated Slovakia 1-0 at Hampden.

Lyndon Dykes scored the only goal of the game to extend Steve Clarke’s side’s unbeaten run to seven games.

Clarke made four changes from the side that beat Israel on penalties on Thursday. Liam Cooper was injured, while Ryan Jack, Callum McGregor and Oli McBurnie all dropped to the bench.

Kenny McLean, Ryan Fraser and John Fleck all came into the side along with Andy Considine, who made his Scotland debut.

Scotland had struggled for chances in their play-off three days ago and there was more of the same in the first half at Hampden. Neither side posed a serious threat or mustered a shot on target, with Dykes and Stephen O’Donnell’s half-chances the best for the home side.

Things improved after the break and after 54 minutes Scotland had a lead to defend. Fraser picked out O’Donnell and his perfectly judged cross was met by Dykes who steered it home from six yards.

Scotland went close to doubling their lead when substitute McBurnie clipped the bar with 12 minutes to go.

The home side were relatively untroubled as they saw out the remainder of the second half to take three points and remain at the top of their Nations League group ahead of their match against Czech Republic on Wednesday.