GOUROCK footballer Greg Taylor has been the talk of the town this week after bagging the winner for Scotland in a 1-0 win over Brazil in Toulon — but the defender admits he was ‘in shock’ to see the ball nestle in the back of the net.

Scotland had previously squared-off against Brazil 10 times at all levels without a win until left-back Taylor’s marauding run ended with a rasping drive into the top corner to help the under-20s register the first win over the South Americans.

Taylor explained that he couldn’t believe he netted the winner for Scot Gemmill’s under-20s, who take on Indonesia in their final group match this evening, because he’s not known for his goalscoring prowess at Kilmarnock.

Speaking exclusively to the Tele, a delighted Taylor beamed: “I was over the moon, it was mental! I couldn’t believe it and when I scored, I think I was in shock. I think at the time I was just hoping the boys could stick to the game plan and see it out until the end of the game.

"As a defender you pride yourself on clean sheets and we probably let ourselves down a wee bit against the Czech Republic, but we’ve shown what we’re capable of and to get a clean sheet against a team like Brazil is massive.

“When I got the ball, to be honest, I was only focused on taking a good touch and I wanted to hit the target. Then I saw there was a wee gap beyond the left-hand side so I tried to strike it as well as I could and luckily it went in.

“Scoring goals is not something I’m used to, I’m not prolific. I think the last time I scored a goal was a year-and-a-half ago with the Kilmarnock under-20s never mind the first team. So it was mad and to get my first for my country on such a big occasion was brilliant.”

On the topic of Scotland having not beaten the samba stars until his strike, Taylor replied: “It’s quite amazing when you say it out loud. 

“It’s something I’m pleased with and proud of. Now I think it’s important we get our focus on the other games and look at our goal which is to qualify for the next round.”

The former Moorfoot and Clydeview Academy pupil acknowledges that the Brazilians have some top quality players who could easily make it to the highest level in the future. 

But the ambitious teen believes that success is also there for the Scottish contingent at the tournament if they work hard enough.

Taylor used Champions League winner Cristiano Ronaldo as an example of a player who has gone on to global success following his participation in the same tournament.

He said: “There could be some really big name players in the future within this Brazil team as well.

“But I think you’ve got to be realistic and have aspirations to go on and become a star yourself.

“Of course you can imagine and think about what these boys can become but it’s also important to think that you yourself could go on to big things. It’s a good stage for everyone.

“One of the days before the first game, Malky Mackay read out all the big names that have played at the Toulon Tournament and some of the names were mental.

“One of them was Cristiano Ronaldo, who has just scored two goals to win the Champions League final. It’s a global tournament and there’s a chance for all of us.”

The ex-St Andrew’s Boys’ Club and Rangers defender was quick to thank mum Fiona and dad Hugh for their commitment to his career so far and he’s under no illusions that he gets his work ethic and positive attitude from them.

He said: “I’m from Midton, that’s where I was brought up. My mum and dad have taken me everywhere and a lot of my attitude comes from them so I have to say a huge thank you to both of them for everything.

“My brother Alistair probably deserves a mention as well, he’s always pushing me on and telling me he’s better than me!”