http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/41600788There were no excuses because he didn't have any left to give. Despite the supporting words of the managerial fraternity in the past few days, Strachan had used up all his lives and had to go.
Sunday in Slovenia was the last act, a game that had ruinous consequences for Scotland's World Cup hopes and for Strachan's dream of taking his country to a major championship.
There was such a positive backdrop as well; a run of matches unbeaten, a fantastic last-gasp victory a few nights before, a gathering sense of something special about to happen.
What's that they say about hope being the thing that kills you? The night ended in failure on the field and embarrassment off it.