Is Scotland a ‘Dragon Slayer’ or, slave to Six Nations leader [Wales]

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Is Scotland a 'Dragon Slayer' or, slave to Six Nations leader [Wales]

Preseason predictions have not proved true for Scottish fans. So in that vein of thought, is Scotland a ‘Dragon Slayer’ or a slave to the Six Nations leader [Wales].

The upcoming fixture between Scotland and Wales is sure to make for a Championship defining moment. Even though form is in the favour of the Red Dragon, many will look at the history of matches between the two for a gauge on this weekends clash.

As proud today as they have ever been across the years; since the two sides first encounter in 1883, the Scots head into the Round Four clash believing they can be a slayer….rather than a slave to the leading Six Nations side.

Gregor Townsend will motivate his men. As will Wales head coach Warren Gatland. Each man’s team will seek two different rewards – one being self-pride, and the other being restored status.

Is Scotland a ‘Dragon Slayer’ or, slave to Six Nations leader

Much can be said of Wales. The most successful of the two nations [they hold a 72/49 winning record]. However, several past results have derailed the Welsh program – and a loss on Saturday will be hurt the sides future hopes.

Scotland on the other hand, have more the gain.

Fair to say that they will not win this year’s Guinness Six Nations championship. That was a hope after round one; defeating Italy. But successive losses to Ireland, and then France smothered any hope of pursuing that immediate goal.

A win this weekend will go towards repairing fans belief. It would give them hope that the national team has the ability to win. The ability to meet any opposition on their home soil, and declare “we, As One”.

If not, then some will continue to speak of a Welsh dominance over Scotland. Of how the South-West neighbours hold a power over the Scots, and will not be stopped in their drive to claim another Six Nations under Warren Gatland’s tenure.

More to Scottish victory than Six Nations success

With an inferior record overall, the most recent encounter between these two nations occurred in November. A 21-10 loss in Cardiff meant that the newly inaugurated Doddie Weir Cup resides in Wales’ hands.

The last time Scotland enjoyed victory over Wales was in February 2017. A sound 29-13 win at Murrayfield which will be the ideal standard, that this 2019 side might wish to repeat. Can they? Some might question the sides form – but few can doubt their heart.

How determined they are, will be judged by the outcome Saturday. Whether they can show a fighting spirit, and possibly ‘slay the dragon’. True grit, in the face of real opposition – because Wales are the real deal. It wil be time for men like Jonny Gray (see main picture) and Finn Russell to stand tall in the face of adversity.

This clash is balanced in the favour of the visitors, no doubt. Yet no follower of rugby should count out the Scots. They will not wish to give Wales any leeway; in that sides claim for a Grand Slam. That motivation to halt the unbroken sequence of Welsh victories is a sort of reward of its own.

That success could be the start of improvement for Scotland, and could help them to a positive record from this years Six Nations. Pick up a win this weekend, and they can then head down to Twickenham, with a stronger belief that they can retain the Calcutta Cup [England v Scotland].

And beyond that, Gregor Townsend and his side can hold their heads a little higher, in the run towards September – and the highest goal of them all; the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

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Scotland v Wales – Saturday 9 March. 3:15pm, Murrayfield

 

“Main photo credit”
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