Practice

Dundee star Gavin Rae is determined to avoid writing another chapter in Scotland’s hard-luck story after helping secure a place in the Euro 2004 play-offs, writes Steven Bell.

The 25-year-old was a spectator the last time his country was involved in a play-off, the heroic but ultimately unsuccessful double-header against England in the lead-up to the last European Championships.

Though there is no prospect of a clash with the Auld Enemy this time around, the draw will still feature some of Europe’s top nations.

Said Rae, “We’re just delighted to be in it. If we ...