Leaders 'rooting for Scotland'

Scotland's political leaders have sent their support

Scotland's first minister has sent his best wishes to the country's football team as they prepare to take on Holland in a Euro 2004 play-off.

Jack McConnell has urged the national side to win the first leg tie at Hampden Park, Glasgow on Saturday.

And Scottish National Party leader John Swinney and Tory leader David McLetchie put their political differences aside to wish the team luck.

Bertie Vogts' side must beat Holland over two legs if they are to play in the Euro 2004 finals in Portugal next summer.

'Formidable outfit'

Mr McConnell said the team have a great chance of progressing to the finals.

He said: "Scotland have done very well after a difficult start to reach the play-offs and we're starting to see signs of an exciting team coming together with new stars like Darren Fletcher and James McFadden.

"The Dutch are undoubtedly a formidable outfit so now is the time for all Scots to join the Tartan Army in getting right behind Berti and the boys. Good luck to the team."

Mr Swinney said: "This is the biggest game in years and I know that every Scot will be right behind the team.

Bertie Vogts is hoping for a Scotland win

"There's no doubt that our team has done this country proud. They deserve to make it to the finals.

"Now, if the boys get stuck into the Dutch, we can win this game and proudly fly the flag in Portugal next year."

Scottish Conservative leader David McLetchie added: "I will be at Hampden to cheer on Bertie's boys with the rest of the Tartan Army.

"I know we will get a result to set us up for a thrilling return play in the Netherlands."