Patterson Starts As Scotland Suffer Narrow World Cup Defeat

Everton’s Nathan Patterson started for Scotland in the second match of their World Cup campaign, featuring for 89 minutes in a 1-0 defeat against Morocco.

The Blues right-back – a second-half substitute for Scotland’s opening victory over Haiti – was in from the off for Steve Clarke’s side.

Despite what played out to be a closely-contested affair in Massachusetts, Morocco were quick to take the lead. 

PSV Eindhoven’s Ismael Saibari netted after just 70 seconds to record the fastest goal of the tournament so far. 

Pushing for an equaliser, Scotland were denied a penalty after Aston Villa’s John McGinn went over in the Morocco 18-yard box early in the second half.

Patterson put in a solid shift in from the right-wing-back role, registering two interceptions, one cross and completely 27 of his 33 passes.

He was replaced by Celtic’s Anthony Ralston moments before the 90-minute mark.

For Scotland – on three points after their first two matches – a tough task is up next. They face Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil in Miami on Wednesday (11pm BST).