You just can’t beat fantastic Finn
SCOTLAND try machine Huw Jones saluted Finn Russell as a unique talent and unique character after the twin architects of England’s destruction left the Six Nations champions chasing shadows at Murrayfield.
Edinburgh-born Jones, whose English parents met at university in the Scottish capital, touched down twice in a breathless first half to take his tally to eight in his last eight Tests, including four in two games against England.
But the 24-year-old centre was quick to pay tribute to his Glasgow team-mate, who bounced back from being substituted against France a fortnight ago with a man-of-the-match display.
That included the clock-stopping floated pass inside his own 22 to Jones which was the catalyst for Sean Maitland’s try.
“Finn is Finn. He’s different to anyone I know. He came back in the only way he can,” said Jones.
“He has amazing confidence and we’ve all got massive confidence in him and his ability. To bounce back with a game like that – he was fantastic.
“Most of the 10s I’ve played with have the ability to play that kind of pass. But to have the confidence to do it in a game like that, against England, Finn is the only one.
“That’s the way he is. That’s his character and the way he plays. I’ve heard people describe him as high risk, high reward. And he is like that. We got the reward.”
Russell, who has signed for Racing 92 in Paris next season, has a gambler’s instinct but after hitting the Calcutta Cup jackpot he was laughing all the way to the bank.
“A lot of folk might look thinking it’s risky – and there is a certain extent of risk – but I back myself,” he said.