Scotland must make the most of home ground advantage to put themselves into Six Nations title contention against underperforming France at Murrayfield on Saturday.
Six Nations
Scotland v France
Saturday 10 February – 16:15
Murrayfield
To Win Match
Scotland 15/10 | Draw 22/1 | France 11/20
Handicap
Scotland (+3.5) 9/10 | France (-3.5) 9/10
What an opportunity this is for Scotland. France were a shadow of themselves against Ireland last week with so many squad absentees and were comprehensively outplayed by Ireland. A win here for Gregor Townsend’s charges and suddenly talk of championship glory isn’t so far-fetched.
That said, they’ll need a vast improvement on their second-half showing against Wales in round one. Despite taking a 27-0 lead early after the break, a flood of penalties allowed the resurgent Dragons back into it, and a final scoreline of 27-26 suggests the Brave Hearts have plenty of work to do in the way of retaining discipline and focus in-game.
They’ll have the Murrayfield faithful behind them on Saturday as they look to deliver Les Bleus another knockout blow, and if their pack can stand up to the might of the French then Finn Russell can create chances against a defence that fell way off Shaun Edwards’ lofty standards a week ago.
France were just as directionless on attack, with halfbacks Maxime Lucu and Mathieu Jalibert unable to dictate play. They continue their partnership this week where they are practically assured of more time and space on the ball, but should be aware that more wastefulness will be pounced upon by a talented Scotland backline.
The visitors have more quality across the park, especially in numbers one through eight, but Scotland are a formidable outfit in their own right and win this if they shore up their discipline.
Verdict: Scotland at 15/10
With the Murrayfield faithful behind them, I reckon Scotland can spring a major upset on Saturday. Take them on the (+3.5) handicap for a bit of safety.
