Hogg: I believe we can win
rank outsiders and priced at 7/1 for victory with some bookmakers. “We’re fully aware of the challenges that are coming our way. We’re aware of that,” said Hogg. “They have got some world-class individuals, world-class coaching staff. That’s a huge challenge for us as a nation.
“That’s the reason you picked up the ball as a kid. You want to be involved in these massive games and I truly believe that if we get everything right tomorrow we can win a Test match.”
Scotland are one of only two of the six nations not to have a new head coach in place, having kept faith with Gregor Townsend following their pool stage elimination in Japan.
However, there have been adjustments to Townsend’s backroom staff, with Steve Tandy joining as defence coach and former France prop Pieter De Villiers brought in as scrum coach.
Hogg feels there is a refreshed feeling within the camp. “I feel we’re in a very good place. In the last couple of weeks, we’ve had a good look at ourselves,” said Hogg.
Stuart Hogg insists Scotland are capable of defying the odds and ending their decade-long wait for victory in Dublin today.
Full-back Hogg will captain his country at the Aviva Stadium in their Guinness Six Nations opener against the “world-class” talents of Ireland.
The unfancied visitors, bidding to end a losing streak dating back to a 23-20 win at Croke Park in 2010 and going into the match on the back of a disappointing World Cup, are