Boss Steve Clarke refused to blame David Marshall after the Scotland goalkeeper was beaten from almost the halfway line in the 2-0 defeat by the Czech Republic at Hampden Park.

In what was the Scots’ return to a major finals for the first time in 23 years, Patrik Schick headed the Czechs in front in their Euro 2020 opener three minutes before the interval.

The striker doubled that lead in the 52nd minute with a sensational effort from just over the halfway line which caught Marshall out of his goal and unable to get back.

Czech Republic coach Jaroslav Silhavy thought the start to the match was key to his side’s victory.

He said: “The decisive factor was that we survived the early pressure from Scotland.

“Then we got into the game and scored the opening goal.

“The second goal from Patrik calmed us down and finished the job.”