SCALES AND THE WINNING MENTALITY

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GOAL HERO Liam Scales is hoping Republic of Ireland adopt Celtic’s winning mentality after their 2-1 UEFA Nations League triumph against Finland in Helsinki.

The international team had gone through a tough and prolonged barren spell until the Hoops defender inspired his country with a brilliant equaliser to steer them towards three crucial points from a difficult fixture.

Now Scales is adamant the Irish are ready to go again when they lock horns with England’s Wembley conquerors Greece in Athens on Sunday.

Robbie Brady got the Irish winner with Adam Idah playing his part after coming off the substitutes’ bench against the Finns.

THAT’S MY BHOY…Liam Scales is congratulated by former Celtic team-mate Mikey Johnston as Adam Idah looks on after the Republic of Ireland’s comeback win in Helsinki.

Scales said: “We knew we had to show character and we also knew the game was there to win or at least get a point. Obviously, though, we wanted a win.

“We want to make that a common occurrence, winning big games, winning games away from home, and obviously winning at home, as well. Hopefully, we can take that mentality into the next few games.

“Greece away is obviously it’s a tough fixture, we have struggled against them in the past, but we are going in on a high now and we need to make this a mentality, a winning mentality, that we can go away to tough places and take wins.

“That’s how you are going to qualify for tournaments. So, that’s the way we need to look at this game.

“We have played them enough to know what they are like and it’s just about going out there, being solid, and, hopefully, winning the game.”

Scales, speaking to the Irish Independent, praised the service from Brady for his leveller and continued: “You know the delivery is going to be brilliant from Robbie, so we are just told to attack the spaces in between the defenders, and that’s what I did.

HEAD BHOY…Liam Scales is a roaring success after his goal against Slovan Bratislava.

“Luckily, it came into my area and it was just a perfect ball. The timing was good and I just managed to get it on target.

“I think it comes with a bit of experience, as well. Sometimes I play against defenders who are heavier and stronger and you need to make use of your timing and speed to win those duels.

“I’m learning as I go along. I might now go on a big drought, you never know. Sometimes the goals can come together and then you don’t get any for a while.

“But if I can make the most of the chances I get, then I’ll be happy.”

The Dubliner added: “I’ve got a few this season and I didn’t get many in the couple of seasons before.

“So, it’s a good thing to add to my game and, hopefully, I can kick on now and get a few more. I work hard in the gym, so I’m stronger, but I think it’s more about timing and delivery, and just getting it right and making sure you take the chance when you get it.

“You don’t get many as a defender and it can be vital in big games, it can be a turning point for us.”

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