Scotland beat England 20-17 on home soil at Murrayfield, to keep hold of the Calcutta Cup. This Six Nations opener packed plenty of drama, and a determined defensive performance from the home side in front of a fierce atmosphere.
The first half played out as a game of attack against defence, with England dominating territory and possession. Scotland’s defence was resolute though, at one point making four times as many tackles as England.
Eddie Jones’ side got on the scoreboard first though, with a swerving penalty kick from Marcus Smith just about making it between the uprights in less than ideal conditions. Scotland replied swiftly though, when a rampaging Darcy Graham run freed up Ben White to cross the line. White was making his Scotland debut, and was only on the field as a head injury replacement for Ali White. This was some way to make an impact.
Finn Russell converted to solidify Scotland’s lead, but they were still mostly pinned back during the run of play. Marcus Smith took England within a point, scoring a penalty after a breakdown infringement from Jamie Ritchie. On the stroke of half time, Scotland extended their advantage with a penalty of their own, as Finn Russell did the business again.
England started the second half strongly, with Marcus Smith’s penalty putting them within a point. Then the away side finally got a try on the board as Smith glided through into space from the scrum and crossed the line. The Harlequins fly-half couldn't quite curve his conversion through the posts, but the momentum was still with England as they chased their Calcutta Cup rivals.
What a #GuinnessSixNations debut for Marcus Smith! 🤩
#GuinnessSixNations #SCOvENG
There would be more points-scoring for Smith, as Scotland continued giving away penalty after penalty. The 22-year-old arrowed his kick between the posts before being replaced by George Ford.
After a half coloured by English momentum, Scotland got themselves right back into the game during yet another flashpoint in proceedings. Luke Cowan-Dickie beat Darcy Graham to a high-ball, and punted it out of play with a volleyball-style connection. The decision was an immediate yellow card, and a penalty try to even us up at 17 apiece. Scotland were now level, with an extra player in their favour.
England began to unravel, and a penalty from the scrum was put away by Finn Russell from a tricky angle. Ultimately it was enough to separate the two teams, as Scotland kept hold of the Calcutta Cup, and took a dramatic victory in this Six Nations clash.
