Cap joy for Partick Thistle keeper Jonny Tuffey

Nov 20 2008 By Fraser Wilson

JONNY Tuffey became the sixth Partick Thistle player to be capped by a country other than Scotland when he made his first appearance for Northern Ireland on Wednesday.

The goalkeeper took over from Maik Taylor in the second half as the Northern Irish went down 2-0 at home to Hungary.

Tuffey put in a solid performance and was blameless for both goals as the impressive Hungarians put Nigel Worthington's side to the sword.

In winning his first full cap Tuffey, who has previously been capped at under 19 and under 21 level, joins Adrian Madaschi, Stephen Craigan, Quinton Jacobs, Jakkup Mikkelsen and Harry Chatton on the list of all-time Jags to have won caps for countries other than Scotland.

His performance won praise from Thistle manager Ian McCall who hopes being involved in the international set-up can further improve Tuffey as a keeper.

McCall said: "I'm delighted for Jonny. It's great for him and great for the club and it was pretty obvious that he had no chance with the goals that went by him.

"Johnny is a great professional and deserved this call-up. If being involved on the international scene can benefit him in becoming a better goalkeeper then great."