Dumfries and Galloway world cup heroes to be recognised

Dumfries and Galloway football heroes Grant Hanley and Lyndon Dykes are set to receive a civic seal of approval in the town this week.

On the back of their huge achievement in helping Scotland reach the World Cup for the first time since 1998, the players are to be officially recognised by Dumfries and Galloway Council.

Abbey Councillor Davie Stitt has tabled a formal motion for Thursday’s full council meeting, which pays tribute to the football stars for their contribution towards the national team’s success.

The motion, seconded by Annandale South Councillor Sean Marshall, reads: "This council recognises the success of the Scotland Football Team and congratulates them on reaching the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.

"This council further recognises that two of the players, Grant Hanley and Lyndon Dykes have connections to Dumfries and Galloway.

"This council agrees that the Convenor writes to the two players and thanks them for their contribution to Scottish Football."

Dumfries-born defender Hanley, who joined Hibs over the summer, played the full 98 minutes of the thrilling 4-2 win over Denmark at Hampden on November 18.

Lyndon Dykes, who had two spells at Queen of the South, came on as a sub in the 64th minute and played his part in an almighty comeback to win the game.

With three world-class strikes – including two stunning goals in injury time – it was arguably the most memorable game Tartan Army fans have ever witnessed.

Hanley is now on 66 caps for the national side, with Dykes on 48. The pair will be hoping to add to that tally next summer as they prepare to travel to the US, Canada, and Mexico for the 2026 World Cup.

Scotland were drawn against Brazil (currently ranked fifth best time in the world), Morocco (ranked 11th best by FIFA), and Haiti (84th place).

Earlier this year, Queen of the South FC revealed that Lyndon Dykes had become their record player sale.

This is because the club has received further sell-on payments as the striker has moved to different clubs in England.

Australian-born Dykes, 30, scored 22 goals in 136 appearances for the Doonhamers between 2016 and 2019.

He earned a move to Livingston where he would play in the Scottish Premiership.

The following season he joined QPR on a four-year deal for a reported fee of around £2million.

He scored 37 goals in 165 appearances for QPR during his stint there, before moving to newly promoted Championship side Birmingham City in a reported £1m deal last summer.

Queens confirmed in September they were due a proportion of the fee making him their record transfer fee.