Veliche Shumulikoski put in a man of the match display as his Macedonian side defeated George Burley's Scotland 1-0 in Skopje in their opening World Cup qualifier on Saturday afternoon.

Shumilikoski, who was winning either his 50th or 51st cap depending on whether you go with Macedonia's records or UEFA's, was picked out as his team's star performer in various reports for his all-action midfield display.

The Town man took the freekick which led to his side's early goal and forced Scotland keeper Craig Gordon into a fine save in the second half.

Elsewhere, Gareth McAuley was an unused sub as Northern Ireland lost 2-1 in Slovakia, while Alex Bruce was left out of the 18-man squad as the Republic of Ireland beat Georgia 2-1 in their game in Mainz, Germany.

Photo: Action Images

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