Scotland coach George Burley was happy with his team's effort during the 2-0 defeat to Japan in Yokohama. The Scottish boss gave debuts to six newcomers as the squad was decimated by withdrawals in the build up to the match, and succumbed to two late goals.

"Overall it was a good workout," said Burley. "We had six new players and it was a game where Japan had most of the possession, played some nice football without maybe - especially in the first half - creating too many chances.

"In the second half our keeper made two good saves from free-kicks and then we had a very good chance with Steven Fletcher, when the goalkeeper got his foot to the ball and stopped it going in.

"We were disappointed giving the ball away from a throw-in and then it was an own goal. Overall, I think it was a good exercise for both countries.

"It was disappointing the way we conceded the first goal and that's always, in international football, a very important one."

Burley was quick to praise Japan, who were dangerous throughout, but also said his new-look side defended well when under pressure.

"I think Japan - especially from free-kicks - were dangerous but I have every confidence in my keeper," he added. "I think Craig Gordon is one of the best keepers in Europe, so I had every confidence in him.

"Japan had the luck today but I think as a team today we defended well.

"All credit to them, they took their opportunity and then they got the second goal and won the match.

"I like the way Japan played football, I thought they were very lively and their passing and movement was excellent. They never stand still, the movement up front was very good and it was good for our players to play against very clever players like the Japanese.

"To pick an individual would be difficult. I was very impressed with the movement of the Japanese team and I'm sure they'll do well at the World Cup."