Gregor Townsend has urged his Scotland players to take on the “toughest match in world rugby” as they attempt to stop powerful Six Nations champions France in a “packed” Paris on Saturday night.
Although Scotland returned to winning ways with a narrow 35-29 victory over a hapless Wales side, they face another disappointing mid-table position after two heavy defeats in a row to Ireland and England.
However, Townsend's side could still have an impact on the outcome of the tournament, with France in pole position and set to win unless the visitors secure a shock victory at the Stade de France.
“The atmosphere there will be amazing, won't it?” the Scotland manager mused. “I think the atmosphere at the Stade de France at the moment is amazing. We saw it during the World Cup (in 2023).
“They are a strong team. When you watch French clubs dominate Europe and score 70-80 points against quality English teams, you understand what can happen if you give them an advantage.
“France scored 70 points against a very good Italian team, 40 points against Wales and 40 points against Ireland. I think they could have scored 40 or 50 points against England if they had taken all their chances. It's probably the toughest game in world rugby at the moment.
“They beat the All Blacks in November so we're looking forward to playing them. We know they'll be challenging for the title but it's a chance for us to go out and play one of the best teams at the moment.”
Townsend admitted his side failed to avoid a final quarter collapse that spoiled what looked like a convincing and potentially record-breaking win over the Welsh side for much of the match.
The Scots scored four tries in a blistering first half and led 35-8 at the end of the third quarter. Tom Jordan and Blair Kinghorn both scored doubles and Darcy Graham also found the net.
However, they suffered a crushing defeat in the final quarter when Wales, who had been held off by Blair Murray in the first half, scored two bonus points when B
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
