Scotland vs. Italy Match Preview

The battle for the wooden spoon continues this Saturday with Scotland being the favorites after their 16-12 win over Italy last week. The match at Murrayfield is sold out to its highest capacity ever. Consistency will be the deciding factor for whoever wins on Saturday. Both teams can play at pace, but have trouble in creating multiple phases of consistent, quality play.

Starting with the home side, Scotland will have some experienced players but will mostly be a experimental forward pack. The front row will have the return of Ross Ford, who has looked good over the year. Second row will have the younger and bigger Gray brother, Johnny, jumping for the lineouts. The scrum will be anchored by David Denton, who looks as though will have the 8 spot for the RWC. After knocking over Mike Ross against Ireland, who can argue.

The aged Greg Laidlaw will captain at Scrum half, after missing last week’s game. Although Sam Hidalgo Clyne has more zip and pace, Greg will probably be the starter over the RWC due to his Versatility.

Finn Russell has been a good look at 10, and will be joined by a great supporting cast. Tim Visser and Sean Lamont, who could both pass for Centers, are two great wing options. The duo bring size and speed, when combined with fullback Stuart Hogg, make for a great back three trio. Peter Horne has certainly punched above his weight class, the undersized centre did well against the Irish side two weeks ago.

Italy will be without their world class 8 man, Sergio Parrise. Martin Castrogiavani will bring the forward pack a needed boost of leadership and will be driven forward in the scrum by Joshua Furno.

The back line for the Italian’s will feature a handful of young talent, with the likes of Angelo Esposito and Luca Morisi getting the starts. With either team having the ability to take the proverbial wooden spoon, Saturdays matchup will certainly be something to watch.

Scotland 16-20 Italy