Photo: Wembley National Stadium Ltd
This Wednesday night sees one of the oldest rivalries in International Football renewed as England take on Scotland at Wembley Stadium, in a game to celebrate the Football Association’s one hundred and fiftieth Anniversary.
These two nations played what was reportedly the very first International match back in 1872 and it is always a fixture that stirs up emotions both sides of the border.
There have been some amazing moments whenever these two countries have played each other in the past, such as Kenny Dalglish scoring at Wembley in 1977 which gave the Scots the victory which sparked a pitch invasion by the their travelling fans. Another epic moment was the magical goal by England midfield genius Paul Gascoigne during the European Championships of 1996, which was followed by the infamous dentist’s chair celebration.
Their last meeting was back in 1999 during a two legged play-off for the following years European Championships, in which England won 2-1 on aggregate as they won 2-0 at Hampden Park with Paul Scholes scoring twice, but the Scots fought back by winning 1-0 at Wembley.
The game on Wednesday is a friendly but as ever between England and Scotland it will mean so much more to both teams, the hosts have star striker Wayne Rooney available despite his lack of game time during Manchester United’s pre-season build up, whilst the Scots have inspirational Celtic midfielder Scott Brown in their squad so it will be a fantastic contest between the two teams.
Other players on display for the England are Frank Lampard (Chelsea) , Steven Gerrard (Liverpool FC) and Arsenal youngster Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, along with Southampton forward Rickie Lambert who will make his International debut if he plays. Meanwhile Scotland have recalled veteran striker Kenny Miller, along with midfielders James Morrison, Robert Snodgrass, and Stoke City’s Charlie Adam.
The two teams will be much more motivated than usual because of the fact it is England against Scotland, so it will be a truly historic occasion with tickets possibly in short supply for what should be an amazing atmosphere come game time.
