Grays give Scotland a lift in Six Nations
Scotland claimed a famous win over Ireland in the opening match of the Six Nations Rugby Championships — and brothers Richie and Jonny Gray were at the heart of the Murrayfield triumph.
The siblings, who grew up in Stewartfield, helped the Scots to a 27-22 victory — only their second-ever opening round win of the Six Nations.
But in typical Scottish fashion, the Dark Blues put their fans through the wringer, racing into a 21-8 lead at the break before finding themselves 22-21 behind going into the closing stages.
Greig Laidlaw hit two late penalties to seal the victory in a match where former Calderglen High School pupil Jonny made 28 tackles and fellow lock Richie put in 17.
The Scots now head to France looking to strengthen their title credentials and speaking to the press after the win over Ireland Richie said: “I don’t think it changes our ambitions, because we were full of belief that we were going to have a good crack at things. But this is the first step on the ladder.
“The next step is to go and take on the French in Paris. It’s been a while since a Scotland team won over there. They are in a bit of form, despite losing to England, so it will be tough.”
And after enjoying the taste of a narrow win on home soil, he added:“It’s pleasing to be on the other side of the equation.
“It makes a change from what we’re used to; playing well and ending up with a narrow defeat.
“It’s nice to get the narrow win instead. We’re absolutely delighted by that — and we push on now.”
Scotland, who are joint-top of the standings with Wales and England, take on France on Sunday in the Stade de France. Kick-off is 3pm.