Scotlands Bravehearts Effort Not Enough In Paris

France 34 – 21 Scotland

Scotland were brought back down to earth as 2010 Grand Slam winners France sent a statement of intent out to their Six Nations rivals.

An impressive ratio of five wins from the last six games heading into their opening game had boosted Scotland’s chances of ending their wretched record in Paris.

Maxime Medard scores

But the Scots were second best as the Les Bleus pack pummelled them into the ground to extend their winless run across the English Channel to 1999.
The writing was on the wall inside the opening 10 minutes as Maxime Medard collected Aurelien Rougerie’s grubber kick to score, with Francois Trinh-Duc adding the extras.

It was all France after a torrid start but shell-shocked Scotland recovered when captain Alastair Kellock hit back with a converted try moments later.

France were increasingly dominant in the scrum and it was no surprise to see Scotland punished by referee Wayne Barnes as they conceded a penalty try.

Scotland were still in it until Trinh-Duc’s sublime moment of skill allowed Imanol Harinordoquy a clear run underneath the sticks just before the hour mark.

Kelly Brown and Damien Traille swapped tries before replacement Sean Lamont scampered over that was no more than a scant consolation for the brave Scots.

Daniel "Pitchside" Pitcher Twitter: @DanFM104Sport About: Dan "Pitchside" Pitcher provides insight and commentary as the chief soccer and rugby correspondent for Sportspeak.