‘Don’t be spooked by French test’

RICHIE Gray insists in-form Scotland must not allow themselves to be spooked by the magnitude of their Guinness Six Nations match in France if they are serious about competing for the title.

After bonus-point wins in their opening two matches against England and Wales, the Scots know victory at Stade de France today will leave them in prime position heading into their final two games at home to Ireland and Italy in March.

Veteran Glasgow Warriors lock Gray admits it is imperative that he and his colleagues do not allow themselves to get caught up in the hype and become inhibited by the occasion.

“Really excited, it is a huge stage,” said Gray. “Playing in the Stade de France is always a privilege and there is a lot on the line in the championship.

“There is a real positive feeling in the camp. The boys can’t wait to get out on the field again and show what we have got.

“We know how big the game is but there is a danger of hyping it up too much potentially and playing within ourselves. We know it is a big occasion but we are looking to go out there and play with smiles on our faces and try to play to our potential.”

Scotland have won in Paris only three times since 1969. Gray admits he cannot recall Scotland arriving in the French capital with such optimism.

“Yeah, we’ve certainly got an internal belief,” he said. “I think it’s always been there in the last couple of years but thankfully now that’s been able to transfer onto the pitch, certainly in the first couple of games.

“But this is a massive challenge and we’re under no illusions about how big a game this is and how difficult a challenge it will be.”

Meanwhile, Raphael Ibanez insists France are prepared for the threat of Scotland talisman Finn Russell. The French team manager feels the fact many of his players are familiar with the 30-year-old, who plays his club rugby in Paris with Racing 92, can help keep him in check.

“Our players know him well because they have played against him, and some have played with him so they know what to expect,” said Ibanez.

“He is a very talented player.”

He added: “Scotland have done so well in the first two games so we’re well aware of the danger and the talent in their team and the confidence they’ve got.

“But we’re playing in Paris and it’s been three and a half months since we last played here, so we’re delighted to play against such a good team in front of our fans.”