A CROWD of more than 3000 people watched Scotland's under-19s record a 1-0 victory over their German counterparts to finish their UEFA qualifying group with maximum points.

A solitary strike from Dundee United striker David Goodwillie during the first half ensured the home side, playing at the Falkirk Stadium, pipped their opponents to top spot.

Both countries had already ensured their qualification for the next stage although the Scots knew that a win would see them finish the group as champions.

Archie Knox's youngsters were made to battle hard for the win, particularly when they were reduced to ten men late on when Paul Elmslie was sent off, but they did just enough to merit the three points. The visitors had actually started the clash as the better side and could have taken the lead with just 30 seconds on the clock when Schalke youngster Mesut Ozil fired in a stinging drive that Scott Murray did well to palm away.

But Goodwillie's strike was the one that mattered and the striker, who grabbed four goals in the 6-0 thrashing of Bosnia last week, made no mistake when presented with a chance in 24 minutes.

He showed great skill to turn his marker on the edge of the box and toe-poke a shot into the far corner.

Taken from the Scotsman