Scotland get one back on France

Scotland played host to France at Murrayfield this afternoon and did well to secure a 17 - 14 victory. As both sides went onto the field you would've cut the tension with a knife. A sold-out Murrayfield went on to sing Flower of Scotland as if it was a World Cup Final. But maybe that was the importance of this game as Scotland came into it limping following last week’s performance. The French managed to put a on a fine display of world class rugby as they hammered Scotland 32 - 3.

However, they would have come into this game knowing that it wasn't going to be easy. Not only because of the hiding they gave the Scottish but also knowing that they last won in Scotland five years ago. And in deed that was the case as Scotland did well to come from behind and secure a 17 - 14 victory. This was after a very fast start from France as Penaud scored back to back tries in quick succession. This time Scotland did not let that alter their plans and they did well to strike just before half time through Sean Maitland.

The entire second half belonged to Scotland as they managed to hold out their opposition throughout the second half.

We look at the top performing players today.

Damian Penaud - France

Still 22 years old the right wing put in a hearty performance this afternoon. If games were decided on one half, this man would have won the game for France this afternoon. However, that was not to be the case. He managed to score two tries this afternoon, his first coming off a Scotland error which he managed to pounce on. Besides his brace he also ended the day with the highest running metres (113). These came off 8 carries and beating three defenders in the process.

Sofiane Guitoune - France

Brought in as a late change, Sofiane Guitoune that experience at time does come with age. While he may only have five games for his national side, he played as though he was a seasoned campaigner. The 30-year-old outside centre racked up 51 running metres beating three defenders in an afternoon that saw plenty of running. 

Hamish Watson - Scotland

An all-round performance for the flanker. While he might not be looked as the reason behind Scotland's victory, statistics don't lie, and they show that this man was an absolute machine. After today's performance one wonders how he only has 23 international caps after making his debut in 2015. 8 defenders beat, 18 metres made, 17 carries and 18 tackles. After this game it will be hard for the Scotland coach to ignore this man.

Charles Ollivon - France

A great defensive effort from the Toulon loose forward. He might have finished the game in the losing team, but it was his tackles that nearly won his side the game. 18 in total, the 26-year-old put in a hard, long and dirty shift this afternoon. Going on he will surely look to work hard to gain more presence on attack.

Stuart Hogg - Scotland

With some doubt over the start of Stuart Hogg earlier on this week. He did well to put his actions where his mouth is as he told Gregor Townsend he was sure that he wanted to start this game. And his performance today will reflect the type of performance that will be needed from him in a couple of weeks when Scotland go up against Ireland in less than a month. 72 metres gained, 3 defenders beaten, 2 clean breaks and 3 turnovers.