Suspenseful Showdown: Scotland vs Georgia Interrupted by Waterlogged Pitch, Resuming Dramatically After Lengthy Delay

Scotland's Euro 2024 qualifier against Georgia faced a temporary suspension after only seven minutes of play. This interruption was caused by a waterlogged pitch resulting from heavy rainfall in the hour leading up to kick-off. At the time of suspension, Steve Clarke's team had already taken a 1-0 lead courtesy of Callum McGregor's early goal. However, Georgia expressed dissatisfaction with the playing conditions, particularly in and around the goal, as the poor conditions substantially aided McGregor's strike.

The referee instructed the ground staff to remove the rainwater from the pitch on two occasions. Unfortunately, the initial inspection revealed that the Hampden surface was still unsuitable for play, but it successfully met the requirements during the second inspection.

After a 10-minute warm-up session on the pitch, both teams were abruptly asked to go back inside without any explanation. However, the Scotland players eventually returned, ready to continue the game from where it had been halted at 9.15pm.

Georgia's players caused a stir when they unexpectedly declined to continue the game, leaving Scotland's players perplexed on the field. Finally, after a delay of one hour and 40 minutes, the visiting players reappeared from the tunnel at 9.35 pm to resume the match. Despite this disruption, Scotland managed to secure a 2-0 victory, with Scott McTominay scoring a second goal shortly after halftime. This win propelled Steve Clarke's team to a comfortable eight-point lead at the summit of Group A.

McTominay expressed his thoughts to Viaplay Sports following the match, acknowledging the initial concerns about the pitch. However, he commended the team for maintaining their composure and adhering to the game plan, resulting in a successful outcome.

He also expressed gratitude towards the crowd, highlighting their remarkable patience and continuous support, emphasizing the team's appreciation for their unwavering dedication.

McGregor, a fellow scorer, expressed his thoughts to Viaplay Sports, stating that the unprecedented experience showcased the exceptional character of the team and staff. He emphasized their eagerness to resume the game and highlighted their overall positive outlook on the night.

Twitter

Due to your consent preferences, you’re not able to view this.

Scotland-Georgia suspended - the full timeline

The referee, Istvan Vad, consults with officials on the touchline for a VAR check on Callum McGregor's goal. Following this, he speaks to both captains and some players who are trying to intervene, discussing the playing conditions.

At 7.57pm, the players and match officials make their way back to the dressing rooms, while grounds staff, SFA staff, and ball boys and girls commence the task of sweeping the pitch to remove any surface water.

By 8pm, UEFA officially announces a 20-minute suspension of the game to facilitate the clearing of surface water. During this time, a preliminary pitch inspection will also be conducted.

8.15pm: The referee and an accompanying match official make their first pitch inspection as staff continue to work on clearing the surface.

Image:

Referee Istvan Vad held two inspections before putting the game on at 9.15pm

At 8.21pm, the initial pitch inspection fails, prompting another inspection to be scheduled for 8.35pm. Furthermore, there are reports suggesting that if the game cannot take place on Tuesday evening, it will be rescheduled for Wednesday, either at Hampden Park or St Mirren in the event that Hampden Park is deemed unplayable.

At 8.33pm, as both teams, backroom staff, and association officials gather near the dugouts, the referee and a match official carry out a second pitch inspection. Everyone eagerly awaits the decision.

Both teams take to the field for their 10-minute warm-up session at 8.45pm, coinciding with the onset of rain. Despite the wet conditions, the ball continues to glide smoothly across the playing surface, with particular focus on maintaining the goal areas.

8.59pm: The players had back down the tunnel - much to the bemusement of the Scotland fans and players.

9.02pm: The restart time is pushed back to 9.15pm.

9.11pm: The Scotland players emerge from the tunnel, ready to resume the game. However, there is no sign of the Georgia players.

Image:

Scotland captain Andy Robertson reacts after another delay to the game restarted at Hampden Park

Viaplay Sports has reported that the Georgia team is unwilling to resume the game, while the Scotland players continue their second warm-up on the pitch.

At 9.19pm, the referee reappears with the ball in hand, conducting yet another brief pitch inspection, much to the ongoing frustration of both players and fans.

9.22pm: The restart time is once again pushed back to 9.30pm, causing the Scotland fans to express their frustrations. In a show of appreciation, the players applaud the fans for their patience before heading back to the dressing room.

9.25pm: Amidst a chorus of boos from the home fans, the Georgia players make their way out of the dressing room.

The restart is once again postponed until 9.35pm, causing further delay. Finally, at 9.34pm, the Scotland players make their way back onto the pitch amidst a tremendous roar from the crowd, marking the resumption of play after an hour and 40 minutes since the game was first suspended.

A soggy Scotland - in pictures!

Image:

Heavy rainfall started at Hampden Park around half an hour before kick-off

Image:

The match kicked off despite the poor conditions

Image:

Callum McGregor's water-assisted goal gave Scotland the lead on five minutes

Image:

Georgia players complained about the conditions

Image:

Ground staff were given two 20 minute periods to clear water off the pitch before inspections

Image:

Scotland fans sang along to "Why Does It Always Rain On Me?" from the stands