Brian Scott: Scotland 1, West Germany 1

Scotland last night gave the World Cup favourites as tough a trial as they were likely to experience before next summer’s finals

And in doing so they are added to the confidence they themselves will need in the event.

The game at Hampden was only a friendly to mark the country centenary yet the atmosphere was reminiscent of that during the historic match with Czechoslovakia and how the players responded.

Admirably led by the aggressive Bremner they played with passion and skill in good measure, never ceasing to enjoy the occasion.

The Scots got a magnificent start scoring after only six minutes.

It came from a corner by Morgan. Law got his head to the ball but his effort was blocked by Dalglish on the line, but it bounced to Holton who headed it beyond Kleff.

Wimmer sent over a low cross which caught Bremner unawares, but Hoeness was unable to control it.

But nothing could dampen the Scots mood. Their attacks continued to produce chances and excitement.

Twice, Hutchinson tested Kleff with shots, then Dalglish tried a volley which was well timed if not so well aimed.

In 35 mins Law nearly put Scotland further ahead. He rose to a Jardine cross and his header flicked the top of the bar and sailed over.

Smith quietly played his way through a nervy period. As he settled he showed some of the talented patches for which he is known.

He opened the Germans with long passes and bemused them with the short ones.

Law was in similar form, and once he flashed over a cross which Dalglish headed narrowly past. The Manchester city maestro lost a boot, but played on regardless.

In the 78th minute Bremner missed a penalty, and Germany equalised through Hoeness in the 84th.