Townsend: Vital to stay grounded and build on Twickenham victory

Scotland warm the nation’s hearts by ending 38-year Twickenham hoodoo with historic win to lift the Calcutta Cup. Pages 2-7

Gregor Townsend has called on Scotland to build on their victory at Twickenham as they look to mount a serious challenge for the Guinness Six Nations title.

Saturday’s 11-6 win was their first on the ground since 1983 and was only the fourth time the Scots have opened their campaign with a victory since thechampionshipexpandedto six teams in 2000.

Townsendwasnotgettingcarried away and believes France will now be title favourites but he knows Scotland have given themselves a chance to challenge at the top end of the table.

Next up is Wales, who will visit BT Murrayfield on Saturday with a spring in their step following their 21-16 win over Ireland in Cardiff.

“Wenowhaveanopportunity thatwe’veseldomhadinthesix Nations–tobuildonaweek-one victory,” said Townsend “It’s a quick turnaround and we’ll be well prepared for Wales.”

It took Scotland until 2006 to win on the first weekend of the Six Nations and on that occasion they defeated France under Frank Hadden and went on to finish third. It remains the equal highest placing achieved by a Scottish side since they clinched the final Five Nations title in 1999.

Further opening-week wins were achieved in 2017, over Ireland, and two years ago against

Italy. This year is the first time Scotland have won on the first weekend away from home, a significant marker given their wretched record at Twickenham.

Townsendhasacclaimedsaturday’s result as one of the finest in Scotland’s history but the coach also stressed the need for the players and staff to stay grounded, a point also made by captain Stuart Hogg.

“Hoggy mentioned that to the players in the post-match huddle,” said Townsend. “We’ve got a couple of days to get our feet back on the ground – but we want to enjoy the moment. These don’t come around very often.”

Asked about Scotland’s title chances, Townsend said: “I don’t think we’ll be the favourites. We weren’t the favourites going into Twickenham for a one-off game, never mind the Championship. “France now, I’m sure, everyone will be picking them as the favourites.”