Scotland head into the final round of the Six Nations Championship with a shock title chance after a dramatic turnaround in fortunes.
Gregor Townsend’s side began their campaign with a disappointing 18-15 defeat to Italy in Rome – a performance where the narrow scoreline flattered the Scots.
But they bounced back in spectacular fashion with wins over England, Italy – and on Saturday – ending defending champions France’s Grand Slam dream with a thrilling 50-40 win at Murrayfield.
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Scotland ran in seven tries in a stunning display and now sit level on points with France heading into the final weekend.
They travel to Dublin to face Ireland on March 14 knowing a historic title remains within reach.
“I think we probably wouldn’t have thought we’d be in this position after the first match,” said Scotland coach Gregor Townsend after his side’s record points haul against France.
Fast starts key
Scotland struck early, with Darcy Graham scoring inside five minutes against France.
Their high-tempo approach unsettled the visitors and helped the hosts edge ahead 19-14 at half time before pulling away with a dominant third quarter.
Townsend’s side have also shown improved composure after painful lessons earlier in the season.
They squandered a 21-0 lead against Argentina in November before losing 33-24, but recent matches suggest the group has grown stronger mentally.
“Obviously the Argentine experience was a painful one,” said Townsend.
“The changes we had to make in the group were more about mindset and dealing with momentum swings.”
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Captain Sione Tuipulotu was equally proud of the team’s composure.
“I just couldn’t be prouder of, not necessarily the big scoring moments, but the way we reacted to moments,” he said.
Forwards lay the platform
While Scotland’s attack has dazzled – led by flyhalf Finn Russell – their forwards have been central to the resurgence.
A pack featuring No 8 Jack Dempsey dominated the breakdown against France and forced uncharacteristic errors.
“I really want to credit our pack,” said Tuipulotu.
“They got to the breakdown over and over and over again… They carried well, we won our set-piece.”
– AFP
Photo: Dan Istitene/Getty Images
The post Scotland’s Six Nations turnaround appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Scotland head into the final round of the Six Nations Championship with a shock title chance after a dramatic turnaround in fortunes.
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