Under-21s 'need to build on Belgium win' with result against Hungary

Lewis Neilson insists Scotland Under-21s need to build on their Belgium boost when they face their Hungary counterparts in Budapest on Tuesday evening.

Scot Gemmill’s side gave their Euro 2025 qualification bid an injection of optimism with the 2-0 win over the Belgians in Roeselare on Friday thanks to goals from Jeremiah Mullen and Lyall Cameron.

After four fixtures the young Scots are on nine points, three points behind leaders Spain as they bid to make the finals in Slovakia.

Defender Neilson, 20, told scottishfa.co.uk: “The result on Friday doesn’t mean anything unless we go and back it up on Tuesday.

“We’ll probably look to play a bit more football and enjoy more of the ball and hopefully it will be another enjoyable night for us.

“We’re sitting second in the group just now. Especially with the group we are in, with Spain, Hungary and Belgium – some top sides.

“But it’s nothing less than we expect and we’re looking to continue that.

“We obviously knew Belgium were going to be a very good side.

“It probably wasn’t the prettiest game from our part and we didn’t play too much football but we had a game plan and we stuck to it and it paid off with us getting the win.”

Neilson believes his move to Championship side Partick Thistle on loan from Hearts this season is paying off.

He said: “I did pre-season at Hearts but I spoke to Steven Naismith and said I wanted game time.

“Partick Thistle was the best suited one for me. Since I’ve gone in, I’ve not missed a minute of football.

“Playing games every week and sometimes twice a week. It’s great for me and it’s what I need at this point in time. To be defending as much as possible and improving my game.”

Celtic’s Matthew Anderson, on loan at Austrian side Flyeralarm Admira, went off injured in Roeselare and he has returned to his club.

Aberdeen’s Ryan Duncan, who remained at home after suffering with illness, has recovered and flew out to Budapest on Sunday.

Rangers duo Cole McKinnon and Robbie Fraser have also joined up with the squad.