The footballing world, and especially Perthshire, is buzzing following an extraordinary night of national pride and unforgettable commentary from two familiar faces with strong Tayside links. Steven Thompson, a former Dundee United star, and Scotland legend James McFadden, who also graced the pitches of St Johnstone, have captivated audiences with their passionate and ultimately viral broadcast of Scotland’s dramatic victory over Denmark.
The momentous occasion unfolded during a crucial World Cup qualifier at Hampden Park on Tuesday evening. As the tension mounted and the game neared its thrilling conclusion, Thompson and McFadden were in the commentary box for the BBC’s live television coverage, providing a soundtrack to a night that will live long in the memories of the Tartan Army. Their raw enthusiasm and deep understanding of the game resonated deeply with viewers, turning a national sporting triumph into an even more personal experience for fans. The ‘Shoot! Shoot!’ Moment That Shook Social Media
The pivotal moment that sent their commentary soaring into viral status arrived when Scotland midfielder Kenny McLean, sensing an opportunity from the halfway line, unleashed an audacious strike. As McLean wound up for the shot, Thompson’s voice rose in an uninhibited, almost primal roar, urging, ‘Shoot! Shoot!’ The ball found the back of the net, sealing a sensational 4-2 victory for Steve Clarke’s men. In the ensuing pandemonium, Thompson’s ecstatic cries of ‘He’s done it! He’s done it!’ were met by a jubilant McFadden, who declared he had ‘just witnessed three of the best goals in Scotland’s history’.
This electrifying sequence, captured not just on the main broadcast but also in an accompanying video showing the commentators’ exuberant celebrations, quickly spread like wildfire across social media platforms. Posted by BBC Sport Scotland on X, the clip swiftly garnered over 200,000 views, becoming an instant classic. The unbridled joy and sheer disbelief in their voices perfectly encapsulated the feelings of every Scotland supporter watching. Perth & Kinross Reacts: A Local Perspective on a National Triumph
The reverberations of this iconic commentary reached every corner of Scotland, including the pubs, living rooms, and community halls across Perth and Kinross. Imagine the scenes in popular Perth establishments like The Old Ship Inn or Greyfriars, where football fans would have been glued to screens, witnessing history unfold. When McLean’s shot rippled the net and Thompson’s shouts echoed, it wasn’t just a national celebration; it was a local explosion of joy. Patrons in these venues, along with families gathered in homes throughout Perth, Crieff, Blairgowrie, and Kinross, erupted in cheers, embracing the magic of a shared national experience.
The strong connections of both commentators to Tayside football added an extra layer of local flavour to the momentous occasion for Perthshire residents. Steven Thompson’s formative years at Dundee United are well-remembered, while James McFadden’s spell at St Johnstone holds particular significance for Perth’s loyal supporters. Their voices, familiar from years of Scottish football coverage, became symbols of local pride amplified on the national stage. This intertwining of local heroes with national success created an irresistible narrative that resonated profoundly with football enthusiasts in the region, sparking conversations and joyous recollections for days. Praise Pours in for the Unforgettable Commentary
The outpouring of appreciation for Thompson and McFadden’s infectious commentary was widespread. Renowned comedian Tim Vine took to X, specifically highlighting his delight with Thompson’s instinctive ‘shoot!’ call before the dramatic goal. A post from Welsh fan ‘Osh Jones’ amassed over 120,000 likes, describing the moment as ‘iconic commentary’. Sam Wallace, chief football writer for The Telegraph, praised Thompson for his foresight: ‘Co-comms saw the opportunity before anyone, ‘Shoot! SHOOT!” Even pioneering female football commentator Jacqui Oatley from Match Of The Day hailed the moment as ‘amazing’, underscoring its impact across the industry.
The candid, unfiltered reactions sparked light-hearted banter too, with one fan humorously noting their sympathy for Liam McLeod, the lead commentator, who had to maintain composure while his co-commentators dissolved into passionate celebration. Meanwhile, BBC Radio Scotland’s own Al Lamont also went viral for his equally fervent reaction to the winning goals, demonstrating the widespread emotional investment in Scotland’s success.
For the Perth and Kinross community, this wasn’t just another football match; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with national aspiration, local pride, and unforgettable moments delivered by voices that resonated close to home. The shared experience, amplified by such genuine and passionate commentary, will undoubtedly become part of the local sporting folklore, a joyful memory to be recounted for generations of football fans in the region.
The momentous occasion unfolded during a crucial World Cup qualifier at Hampden Park on Tuesday evening. As the tension mounted and the game neared its thrilling conclusion, Thompson and McFadden were in the commentary box for the BBC’s live television coverage, providing a soundtrack to a night that will live long in the memories of the Tartan Army. Their raw enthusiasm and deep understanding of the game resonated deeply with viewers, turning a national sporting triumph into an even more personal experience for fans. The ‘Shoot! Shoot!’ Moment That Shook Social Media
The pivotal moment that sent their commentary soaring into viral status arrived when Scotland midfielder Kenny McLean, sensing an opportunity from the halfway line, unleashed an audacious strike. As McLean wound up for the shot, Thompson’s voice rose in an uninhibited, almost primal roar, urging, ‘Shoot! Shoot!’ The ball found the back of the net, sealing a sensational 4-2 victory for Steve Clarke’s men. In the ensuing pandemonium, Thompson’s ecstatic cries of ‘He’s done it! He’s done it!’ were met by a jubilant McFadden, who declared he had ‘just witnessed three of the best goals in Scotland’s history’.
This electrifying sequence, captured not just on the main broadcast but also in an accompanying video showing the commentators’ exuberant celebrations, quickly spread like wildfire across social media platforms. Posted by BBC Sport Scotland on X, the clip swiftly garnered over 200,000 views, becoming an instant classic. The unbridled joy and sheer disbelief in their voices perfectly encapsulated the feelings of every Scotland supporter watching. Perth & Kinross Reacts: A Local Perspective on a National Triumph
The reverberations of this iconic commentary reached every corner of Scotland, including the pubs, living rooms, and community halls across Perth and Kinross. Imagine the scenes in popular Perth establishments like The Old Ship Inn or Greyfriars, where football fans would have been glued to screens, witnessing history unfold. When McLean’s shot rippled the net and Thompson’s shouts echoed, it wasn’t just a national celebration; it was a local explosion of joy. Patrons in these venues, along with families gathered in homes throughout Perth, Crieff, Blairgowrie, and Kinross, erupted in cheers, embracing the magic of a shared national experience.
The strong connections of both commentators to Tayside football added an extra layer of local flavour to the momentous occasion for Perthshire residents. Steven Thompson’s formative years at Dundee United are well-remembered, while James McFadden’s spell at St Johnstone holds particular significance for Perth’s loyal supporters. Their voices, familiar from years of Scottish football coverage, became symbols of local pride amplified on the national stage. This intertwining of local heroes with national success created an irresistible narrative that resonated profoundly with football enthusiasts in the region, sparking conversations and joyous recollections for days. Praise Pours in for the Unforgettable Commentary
The outpouring of appreciation for Thompson and McFadden’s infectious commentary was widespread. Renowned comedian Tim Vine took to X, specifically highlighting his delight with Thompson’s instinctive ‘shoot!’ call before the dramatic goal. A post from Welsh fan ‘Osh Jones’ amassed over 120,000 likes, describing the moment as ‘iconic commentary’. Sam Wallace, chief football writer for The Telegraph, praised Thompson for his foresight: ‘Co-comms saw the opportunity before anyone, ‘Shoot! SHOOT!” Even pioneering female football commentator Jacqui Oatley from Match Of The Day hailed the moment as ‘amazing’, underscoring its impact across the industry.
The candid, unfiltered reactions sparked light-hearted banter too, with one fan humorously noting their sympathy for Liam McLeod, the lead commentator, who had to maintain composure while his co-commentators dissolved into passionate celebration. Meanwhile, BBC Radio Scotland’s own Al Lamont also went viral for his equally fervent reaction to the winning goals, demonstrating the widespread emotional investment in Scotland’s success.
For the Perth and Kinross community, this wasn’t just another football match; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with national aspiration, local pride, and unforgettable moments delivered by voices that resonated close to home. The shared experience, amplified by such genuine and passionate commentary, will undoubtedly become part of the local sporting folklore, a joyful memory to be recounted for generations of football fans in the region.