TRYS & ERROR
Townsend: Our swashbuckling style can lead to mistakes but also serves up piles of points
GREGOR TOWNSEND insists he will be happy to see Glasgow continue to play risky, swashbuckling rugby as they bid to land the Pro 12 title.
The Warriors take on Ulster at Scotstoun in tomorrow’s semi-final with the winners set to face Munster or Ospreys in Belfast.
Townsend has earned plaudits for playing open, offensive rugby and sees no reason to change the style that has brought them so much success this season.
And he will forgive his players for making mistakes if they do it while trying to create chances.
Townsend said: “If we were to score five tries in every game but end up losing then I would change that style.
“There can be more mistakes when you play in that manner and try things. But I have no problem with that if the errors are made by pushing boundaries.
“The important thing is to learn from the sloppy mistakes.
“We also have pride in our defence. You don’t win games without being solid.”
When Townsend took over at Scotstoun in 2012 he wanted to make the Warriors as powerful as Irish giants Leinster.
So he would regard it as a massive achievement to guide Glasgow to the Pro 12 crown.
Townsend said: “When I took charge the teams I looked up to as role models were Leinster at club level and the All Blacks on the international stage.
“They have always been sides who try to move the ball around.”
Meanwhile, Glasgow will allow Connor Braid to leave the club at the end of this season.
The 24-year-old Canadian has made seven appearances since arriving on a short-term deal.
Braid said: “I would like to thank everyone at Glasgow for giving me the opportunity to play and be involved at this great club.”
● Scotland boss Vern Cotter insists fellow Kiwi Jason O’Halloran will be an invaluable addition to his coaching staff.
O’Halloran will arrive as No.2 after the World Cup and Cotter said: “Our players will thrive and develop under him.”