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February 24, 2003

Another bleak weekend for Scottish rugby

Posted by Editor on February 24, 2003 12:26 AM | No comments | Print | E-mail author
It was another disappointing weekend for Scottish international rugby as the A team went down to a 30-15 defeat against their French counterparts while the senior squad slumped to a 38-3 defeat at Stade de France.

Moffat">Stuart Moffat and Graeme Beveridge scored tries for the A team in Agen but a number of chances were squandered by the Scots. The senior squad were well beaten at the Stade de France as they had only a Chris Paterson penalty to show for their efforts.

Glenn Metcalfe had a solid game showing up well in the few attacking moves Scotland managed to put together. Jason White and Jon Petrie came on as replacements and seemed to offer more resistance but by that time the game was over as a contest.

Gordon Bulloch continues to struggle with his lineout throwing and his work in the loose. Bulloch has been playing rugby almost nonstop over the last few seasons and looks tired. Scotland now have two weeks to sort out the problems that have seen them register only nine points and no tries in two matches.

Jason White seems likely to force himself into the starting XV for the next Six Nations match against Wales at Murrayfield.

"The glaring difference between the sides was the French ability to exploit the gaps and then finish off their moves. They were chucking the ball out wide a lot and when they are given so much time and space it's try-time. They had tremendous speed and seemed able to find the gaps and get through them. The guys are very down in the dressing room. We have been up against two exceptionally good teams in the past week - and now we have to regroup and get our house in order before the Welsh game."
Gordon Bulloch

"There was no shortage of effort and endeavour from our guys. The defence actually held pretty well for most of the game. France are exceptionally strong up front, but I thought our scrum remained pretty solid. There is obviously a lot to work on before Wales."
Glenn Metcalfe

"We just have to look for a bit of determination. Individuals have to look at what they are doing on the pitch and where we can improve in the next game. It is a must-win game against Wales so we need to put in a good performance. Little things like knock-ons can make all the difference. Confidence is a big thing and if we get one score I am sure a couple more will follow."
Jason White

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