Seething Cyprus coach Ran Ben Shimon slammed Scotland as long ball merchants who didn’t deserve to nick a win in Nicosia.
The manager was furious at ref Harald Lechner for failing to spot an early strike that looked to have crossed the line. But Shimon also took a pop at Steve Clarke ’s men as he insisted his side were the only team trying to play football.
He said: “The ball was in the corner for six minutes in the latter stages. We had prepared for long balls, but not that amount of long balls. I have respect for opponents but the better team lost.
“It was a close match and could have gone either way. The team that tried to play football lost this game.”
Shimon saved rage for the ref though and he believed the phantom goal played a major part in the Euro 2020 defeat.
He said: “I never speak about referees but it was a poor performance.
“It was the decisive moment in the game. To lead after six minutes would have been crucial. It was half a metre inside.
“I am proud of my players, there were so many good things and we will continue on.”
