Scotland v England: the origins of the oldest football international in the world
Early action between Scotland and England, published in the Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News in 1875 after the match at Kennington Oval in London. Robert Gardner, captain of Scotland in 1872, is the bearded goalkeeper on the left.
The world's first recognised international football match took place in Partick, near Glasgow, on 30 November 1872 between teams representing Scotland and England. It marked the culmination of two years of activity which began with unofficial contests in London, and sparked a rivalry that is as vibrant today as it ever was.
On these pages you can read about these contests and find out about some of the key personalities.
England v Scotland 1870: the 'unofficial' series begins
Scotland v England 1872: the first 'official' international
England v Scotland 1873: the return in London
Scotland v England 1874: Scotland's first victory
The full story is in my book First Elevens, which reveals the origins of the Scotland v England match and gives a unique insight into the men who made it happen.
Ticket to the first match and (right) JJ Thomson's Scotland cap. Both are on display at the Scottish Football Museum.
