By 4two
February 19 2004

Paul Ritchie had a nightmare come back game on the international scene with Scotland.

Paul Ritchie played the full 90 minutes in Scotland's 4-0 drubbing at the Millennium Stadium. 

Ritchie was unfortunate enough to be involved 3 of the games 4 goals, as the Scottish defence struggled to cope with the pace of the Welsh forward line.

For two of the games goals Ritchie allowed Earnshaw enough space to get his shot on goal by backing off (Standard defending for a Saddler).

The other goal saw Ritchie caught in no mans land when the ball was crossed in to the box, for Earnshaw to score yet again.

Scotland boss Vogts said......"Paul Ritchie has been playing very well this season and Stevie Caldwell has done well in the Future Team but this is a big step up.  They had not played together before but what can I do? Steven Pressley and Lee Wilkie are injured."

Ritchie will not have been pleased with his performance. He may not have done himself any favours in the long run. This was his chance to play his way back in the Scotland team. It may be good news for us because Ritchie will have to continue his good form domesticly and show Vogts he is worth another chance.