Norway 1-2 Scotland Scotland player ratings Hareide confident of second World Cup qualifying photos

"We hoped for maximum points from games against Italy and Norway and got four and we would probably have settled for that as we now have a chance," he said.

"I thought it was a terrific performance by everyone.

"Norway are not the easiest side to play against as they have such a physical presence, but we handled it."

Scotland are now two points behind Norway and Slovenia, who are joint second after Slovenia's 2-1 win away to Moldova.

Smith's side could have been in an even stronger position if they had not lost an equaliser to Italy with 15 minutes remaining at Hampden.

The team performance was incredible again Scotland goalscorer Kenny Miller

"We were disappointed on Saturday when we dropped a couple of points against Italy and Norway scored in the last minute tonight," he said.

"But this win makes up for Saturday and brings us back up again and that's an important factor for us.

"It gives us a chance going into the last two games.

"The goal at the end was one which could come from a lot of pressure.

"But we showed a great deal of commitment to handle a very difficult situation.

"The first goal was a real striker's goal for Kenny after a good move by us, the ball was knocked down by James McFadden and he showed a great instinct.

"For the second, he took advantage of an error and put it in.

"He might have had a hat-trick if he hadn't been injured.

"In the second half, we were always going to be under pressure and I'm really happy we managed to handle that."

Miller had scored against Italy and was the goal hero again, but the Wolverhampton Wanderers striker put the victory down to good defending.

"The team performance was incredible again, especially the defence," he said.

"That's what got us the result.

"We've come here for the three points and the team have done it.

"We have to rely on other people now if we are to qualify, but you never know."

Scotland captain Barry Ferguson has targeted wins over Belarus and Slovenia.

"Since Walter has taken over, the confidence is high and everyone is working so hard and now we're starting to play the football that we want," said the Rangers midfielder.