Jones ready for ‘niggly’ Scots

EDDIE Jones has branded Scotland ‘niggly’ ahead of Saturday’s Calcutta Cup showdown.

The England head coach promised ‘brutal physicality’ in Paris, before seeing his side lose 24-17 to France.

Undeterred, the head coach has taken early aim at Scotland by claiming that history shows they attempt to provoke England.

“Scotland are a niggly side. Our historical record against Scotland is interesting - over 80 per cent wins in England but only 50 per cent at Murrayfield,” Jones said.

“It’s about having good focus, good attention to the moment, good clarity about your game-plan, being well prepared. And we’ll start with that today (Tuesday).”

Two years ago England were thumped 25-13 at Edinburgh in a defeat that exposed glaring breakdown deficiencies and launched a five-Test losing run that placed Jones’ future in doubt.

When the teams walked through the tunnel to the changing rooms upon completing their warm-up, a brawl erupted that was provoked by Scotland number eight Ryan Wilson targeting George Ford, prompting Owen Farrell to defend his teammate.

Asked for an example of ‘niggly’ conduct, Jones replied: “The dressing-room scene two years ago when they tried to goad a couple of our players. And they were successful.

“Historically they’ve done that through the ages. That’s the way they stay in the game and they’re good at it.

“The Murrayfield environment helps them but you’ve got to be good enough to stay focused, be on task, do what you need to do.

“Composure is always important in rugby, but probably more so at Murrayfield.”