We need to cut out the basic errors, says Murray
BRAGGING rights are on the line in Scotland as both sides are determined to finish their campaign on a high.
For Scotland, they began their tournament in sensational form, narrowly missing out on achieving one of the great tournament upsets against England, falling 41-36.
A week later, they beat Wales to snap a 15-game losing streak and give them their first Six Nations win in almost three years.
Since then, Scotland have shipped 136 points in their two losses and last week’s 82-7 drubbing by Ireland was a reality check for Kenny Murray’s side.
“We know it wasn’t good enough but as I told the guys, the most important thing is that we
accept it, pick ourselves up and work even harder to get a good result this week,” said Murray.
“Italy are a strong team, their set piece and technique has been very good the past few weeks.
“We must cut out the basic errors that let us down last week if we want to end the campaign on a high note.”
Murray has opted for a new half-back partnership to start this week with scrum-half Ben Afshar pairing with Richie Simpson. There is also an all-new second row combination with Eddie Erskine partnering Ruaraidh Hart.
Last week, the Azzurrini registered their first win of the Championship with a tenacious 29-25 win over Wales.
Looking to capitalise on the momentum, head coach Massimo Brunello is expecting a spirited Scottish reaction after their disappointing performance last week but is certain that his side will embrace the challenge. He said: “We expect a fiery start to the match. Scotland will be looking for a proud reaction after conceding 80 points against Ireland.
“But we are ready, aware of our values, not only in a technical sense but also mentally, which I’m sure the boys will be able to demonstrate.”
Brunello has opted for consistency after last week’s win, only making three changes to the runon XV.
Talisman Francois Carlo Mey returns at full-back with Simone Brisighella shifting to flyhalf as Giovanni Sante drops to the bench for the first time this campaign.
The return of captain Giovanni Quattrini in the back row is one of two changes in the pack as Destiny Ugiagbe Aminu starts at loosehead prop.