Sensational tackle from Kieran Tierney and first ever Nathan Patterson goal help Scotland reach World Cup play-off place against Moldova

However, he owed a debt of thanks to Kieran Tierney and Craig Gordon after giving away an 82nd minute penalty.

The Rangers full-back then also set up the second for Che Adams in a 2-0 victory over Moldova as Scotland secured second spot in Group F with a game to spare.

Adams also had two goals disallowed as Scotland delivered a positive performance in front of a noisy travelling support in Chisinau to record a fifth consecutive win.

The three points saw them open up an unassailable lead over third-placed Israel ahead of their nearest challengers' game in Austria, and took the pressure off ahead of the final group game against group winners Denmark.

After a lively opening, Patterson drilled home the opener in the 38th minute after running on to John McGinn's lay-off.

The 20-year-old latched on to McGinn's backheel in the 65th minute before sending in a low cross which Adams knocked home from close range.

Scotland looked for a third and Cooper had a header cleared off the line before Adams was foiled by a more obvious offside decision.

Gilmour also threatened before Patterson's arm made contact with the ball as he challenged for a high ball. Gordon made a superb diving save from Vadim Rata which was matched by Arsenal man Tierney's sliding challenge to prevent the penalty-taker making amends.

McGinn forced a save at the other end before Stoke striker Jacob Brown was handed a late debut.

Scotland now host Denmark on Monday at a sold-out Hampden with an opportunity to boost their chances of sealing a home semi-final in March.