Scotland can recover, says Mccormack

Steve Mccormack has admitted Scotland’s pride has been dented after they were humbled by Tonga in their World Cup opener but has backed his side to bounce back.

The Bravehearts went into the game in Cairns ranked fourth in the world following an impressive 2016 Four Nations campaign. But, with only nine survivors from last year’s draw with New Zealand, Scotland were blown away by a powerful Tonga team in a one-sided first half.

Mccormack’s side kept the Pacific heavyweights scoreless for much of the second half and went over for their only try through Danny Addy, only for Tonga to cross twice late on to underline their superiority.

“We were nowhere near good enough,” Mccormack said. “There’s some damaged pride. But we’ll lick our wounds, patch ourselves up and get ready to go next week.

“I’ve got a fantastic bunch of players who are full of resilience. We’re excited about going to Christchurch and playing New Zealand. I wish it was tomorrow, although I’m sure the players don’t.”

Captain Danny Brough, who broke Scotland’s appearance record after winning his 24th cap, admitted his team did not turn up.

“They came down the middle with strong and powerful running. In the World Cup you can’t give a team as much respect as we did.”

Asked if Tonga could win the World Cup, coach Kristian Woolf responded: “It’s a difficult question. Scotland are not going to be a real challenger in the World Cup judging by tonight’s performance.”