RHINE, WIND OR SHINE

Downpours can't dampen spirits as Tartan Army drink pubs dry to shelter from rain in Germany

- RYAN CARROLL

THE Tartan Army were forced to run for cover to nearby pubs after the Cologne fan zones were closed down by a torrential downpour yesterday.

But that didn't stop the Scots fans partyting and praying we can reignite our Euro campaign by beating Switzerland tonight.

Most of the 60,000 strong Scottish contingent had hoped to watch yesterday’s Euro 2024 matches on the big screens in the city centre.

But with thunder and lighting forecast, the two fan zones in the city in the Heumarket and Tanzbrunnen areas were forced to close their doors.

Fan Dylan Mya, a scaffolder from Edinburgh, said: “It’s a bit of a shocker that these zones are going to be closed.

“There is a danger to life weather warning, so I guess it’s a case of ‘safety first’.

“Mind you, it’s going to be a job finding a bar that’s not rammed. The publicans of Cologne will be the big winners.”

Steven Forbes, a plumber from Aberdeen, took shelter in the city centre Corkonian Irish pub.

The 53-year-old said: “We’re not letting the weather affect our day too much.

“We’ve got tickets for the game tomorrow and we’re praying for a win. We’re always better in the second game so I think we can do it.”