The ‘happy with the hassle’ mantra from Townsend is the largest crimson rag to the largest Scottish bull.
The dimensions of the failure was epic, not a lot as a result of they misplaced – as a result of this was at all times going to be a decent sport towards a nice Italy group – however in the best way they misplaced.
Their lack of aggression and intent from the beginning, their defensive disorganisation for Italy’s tries, the horrible weaknesses of their lineout (whereas Italy had been nailing most of theirs), the self-harming bouts of indiscipline at crucial occasions, their incapacity to problem-solve on the transfer.
Italy had been lacking some key gamers. Scotland had been lacking no-one.
When it got here to teaching nous and participant execution, Italy had a bit of an excessive amount of of each.
They inflicted a soul-destroying defeat on Scotland, however, in lots of senses, Scotland did it to themselves. A recurring theme, that.
The sensation of fury within the aftermath is unprecedented since Andy Robinson’s group misplaced to Tonga in 2013 and Matt Williams’ group misplaced to, effectively, just about everyone in his slapstick years in cost.
A marketing campaign over after only one sport? Possibly untimely, however you possibly can’t fault anyone for considering it.
England will count on an offended Scottish response on Saturday. A few of the guests, hard-bitten by latest expertise, will know that there is fireplace and brimstone coming their method.
The house followers in huge numbers at the moment are useless towards Townsend remaining as coach, however come kick-off time in Edinburgh, you will not realize it. The place can be electrified.
May you low cost a Scotland upset? No. Would you wager on it? No, once more.
At Murrayfield, the decision-makers are sitting in silence, apparently nonetheless assured that enchancment will come if they simply maintain their nerve.
As a reminder, Townsend took over in 2017. He is almost 100 video games in. That is his ninth Six Nations. Scotland have by no means contended.
His future is being talked about, however not by the individuals who would possibly decide it. Not but.
That may come later, relying on what occurs within the weeks forward – ‘would possibly’ being the operative phrase – however for now there’s a Calcutta Cup to cope with and a world of questions for Townsend to reply.
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