Finn helps Scots end Dragon jinx
FINN RUSSELL and Stuart Hogg dazzled – and guided Scotland to their first win over Wales for 10 years.
Russell kicked seven goals from seven attempts and Hogg was at the heart of everything Scotland did well at Murrayfield with numerous classy attacking touches in a game watched by Lions coach Warren Gatland.
The dynamic Hogg is surely now the leading contender to play fullback against New Zealand this year and followed up three tries in the opening two games with a performance of searing pace and sublime handling that frightened the Welsh defence.
Russell is quickly becoming one of the best attacking fly halves in the Northern hemisphere but has added a calming influence to his game highlighted by his perfect record with the boot in a mature performance.
“The boys were awesome,” Russell said. “It was always going to be a tough game, especially with both teams coming off a loss. I’m so proud of the boys.
“We knew if we were in the game at half-time then we would be good enough and we dug deep.
“I’ve got Greig’s [Laidlaw] boots on and I was happy to keep the scoreboard ticking over with my kicking.”
Scotland have a number of players making strong Lions cases for inclusion against the All Blacks.
Tim Visser and Tommy Seymour scored the tries against Wales but it was the inventive, electrifying duo of Hogg and Russell, never far from each other, who stole the show.
Scotland remain in contention for the championship and captain John Barclay said his side were oozing confidence ahead of their visit to Twickenham to face champions England.
Wales fell away after Liam Williams’ try and interim head coach Rob Howley conceded the championship was out of reach. “It’s about pride in the next two games,” he said. “Scotland were better than us and deserved the win.”
England v Italy today, 3pm