Stuart Findlay fulfils childhood dream by scoring on Scotland debut
Last updated 14th Oct 2019
Stuart Findlay hailed Scotland's comprehensive 6-0 victory over San Marino as the “peak of my career so far” after he marked his first cap with a goal and an assist.
After setting up John McGinn's third goal with a firm downward header at the end of the first half, the Kilmarnock centre-back got on the scoresheet himself when he nodded in Ryan Christie's corner to put Scotland 5-0 up.
Findlay - the first Kilmarnock player to score for Scotland since 1969 - said netting on his international debut at Hampden Park was a childhood dream.
“It's an amazing feeling for myself,” the 24-year-old said.
“It's probably the peak of my career so far.
“To score on my debut at Hampden is something I've dreamt of as a little boy so it's a really special moment for me.
“I've looked up and seen my mum and dad in the stand for the national anthem and that's a moment I've been able to savour forever.
“But the most important thing was we knew we had a game to play tonight and I know it's a game we're expected to win but to go out, score six goals and keep a clean sheet - we've done what was expected and hopefully we can kick-start our form from here.”
A first-half hat-trick from Aston Villa midfielder McGinn had put Scotland 3-0 up at the break, while there were also goals for substitute Stuart Armstrong and home debutant Lawrence Shankland in the second half of the Euro 2020 qualifying Group I fixture.
Findlay said it was a special night for both him and Dundee United striker Shankland, who he has known since childhood.
He added: “I've known Lawrence from when we were little boys, we used to play against each other aged eight and nine so I've known him all the way through.
“I was over the moon to see him score and then to get one myself was a really special moment for the two of us.
“The two of us might not have been involved at this level not very long ago so it just shows you how quickly football can turn and I'm delighted for Lawrence.
“Just to get your first cap anywhere is incredible but to do it at Hampden is just something you dream of when you're growing up and it's something I'll always remember."