Scots have chance to get off to a flyer
IF Scotland can win their Six Nations opener against Ireland on Saturday, they will gain momentum for their next match in Paris.
Lose, and a trip to the French capital appears far more daunting.
The way the competition is structured now, with every side playing on the first two weekends, means winning momentum will be key. The introduction of bonus points adds a further dimension.
The Scottish players should be brimming with confidence, given Glasgow and Edinburgh’s performances in Europe.
Yet Ireland will also be confident of overturning Vern Cotter’s side, given their own form.
Their provinces are also riding high in European competition and who can forget their incredible first victory over the All Blacks in Chicago in the autumn.
It promises to be an intriguing battle at Murrayfield next weekend and, ever the optimist, I feel Scotland could have an edge over their Celtic cousins.
The Dark Blues have an excellent record of performances in Paris, if the results have not always gone their way.
Given that France seem still to be in a state of disarray, it would not be out of the question for the Scots to win their first two matches.
Home games against Wales and Italy should also be gilt-edged opportunities for Scottish victories, despite an Italian renaissance.
Wales seem to be a team in transition with a new captain and a coach on Lions duty again.
The tricky game for Scotland is likely to be a visit to HQ, where they have not won since 1983.
England look strong under Eddie Jones and have had a habit of winning close matches, which is always a skill. If Scotland travel to Twickenham undefeated then anything could happen, but the ground is becoming a fortress for England.
The Murrayfield men have a great chance to do well this year and finish with more victories than defeats.
If they can, the Championship could go right down to the wire.
I don’t envisage a Grand Slam year, but I do think England are likely to retain their crown with bonus points playing their part.