Scotland made to pay for poor start against Denmark, says Steve Clarke
The national team lost 2-0 to Denmark in Copenhagen
Steve Clarke says Scotland were made to pay for a poor start in Copenhagen as they lost 2-0 to Denmark in World Cup qualifying.
The national side were outclassed in the first-half and lost two goals in the opening 15 minutes to the Euro 2020 semi-finalists.
Captain Andy Robertson started as a right wing-back with Nathan Patterson and Stephen O'Donnell were unable to travel.
Clarke shuffled the pack at the break, moving Robertson over to his more natural left-side while Kieran Tierney slotted into the back three.
The Scotland boss says they didn't show enough quality on the night and gave themselves an uphill battle with their slow start.
He said: "It was a difficult first half for us.
"I thought the Danish team started really well. Good intensity, good power and pace.
"We had to try and weather the storm and we didn't do that.
"We conceded two goals in quick succession which made it a long night for us.
"I think from about 30 minutes in we started to get a foothold in the game but by then the game was a little bit beyond out reach at 2-0 down.
"It was always going to be a tough night after that.
"But I think we showed some signs that we could get the ball down and we could play".
The result leaves Scotland in fourth place in Group F behind Denmark, Austria and Israel.
Only top spot in the group secures a place at the World Cup while second place teams enter a play-off.
Steve Clarke doesn't think the result damages their chances of finishing as runners-up.
He said: "We're still in the group - no problem.
"We've got a tough game at home against Moldova at the weekend and we go for three points.
"If we get three points there then we look forward to the Austrian game away".
"Lets not underestimate how good the Danish side is.
They're a top side and they're playing with great confidence. They got to the semi-finals of the European Championships in the summer.
"You don't do that with poor players and a poor method of play".