Maloney strike gives Scots victory over Ireland (AFP)

Scotland boosted their European Championship qualification chances as Shaun Maloney’s superb strike handed them a 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland in Group D on Friday. The Scots dominated a highly-charged first half at Celtic Park with Steven Fletcher and Charlie Mulgrew both off target with headers before Fletcher missed a golden chance to convert a Maloney cross from close range. Ireland improved after the break and Scotland ‘keeper David Marshall produced a fine save to deny Aiden McGeady.