Scotland's Kenny Miller believes a 'sticky surface' cost him the chance to strike an opener against Holland.
Scotland striker says a 'sticky surface' cost him the chance to strike an opener
Scotland striker Kenny Miller believes a 'sticky surface' cost him the chance to strike an opener in the World Cup qualifier against Holland on Saturday.
The Scots went down 3-0 at the Amsterdam ArenA through first-half headers from Klaas Jan Huntelaar and Robin van Persie, as well as a Dirk Kuyt spot-kick.
But it could have been different as Miller had a glorious opportunity for the Scots when the scores were still level.
The Rangers forward was sent clear on goal by Darren Fletcher but he could not test the keeper as Joris Mathijsen recovered with a saving tackle.
Reflecting on the chance, Miller said: "It was a very sticky surface and it was hard to get moving with the ball at your feet.
"I was trying to get the ball in front of me and get a shot in.
"Unfortunately, the defender got back and blocked the shot so I didn't get the chance to test the keeper.
Disappointing
"But we were beaten by a cross, a corner and penalty which is disappointing. We should be defending them a lot better as a team.
"Allan McGregor had to make a few saves which we expected him to do but the goal on half-time was a sucker punch for us."
Miller is now looking forward to the Iceland game on Wednesday, which will be shown live on
Sky Sports 2 and
HD2 at 8pm.
The Scots, with only four points from four games, need to win this match to have a realistic chance of reaching the finals.
Miller added: "We have to get ready to go again and take care of Iceland on Wednesday. The home games against Iceland and Macedonia are going to be vital.
"I also still think we can get something from Holland at home and I think we are capable of going to Norway and getting a result."
Berra reaction
Meanwhile, Christophe Berra considered his first start for Scotland in the defeat to Holland to have been a success - despite conceding the penalty when felling Huntelaar.
But the Wolves player still expects to be dropped for Stephen McManus against Iceland if the Celtic skipper is fit enough to resume his partnership with Parkhead team-mate Gary Caldwell.
"I did my best but I know that Stephen is number one pick at the moment and I fully expect him to come back in to the side on Wednesday," the former Hearts player said.
"Stephen and Gary Caldwell play together at club level as well so I just have to take it on the chin.
"But it was a great experience playing against one of the top teams in the world and I thought I did well.
"At the penalty, I thought Huntelaar was going to shoot. I didn't slide to get the ball, I tried to block the shot and I think he leaned in to me. I think he was quite clever in doing that.
"But, overall, I was happy with my performance."
