Top 3 performers - Scotland vs Italy

Finn Russell

The Glasgow Warriors man was outstanding again today and deservedly picked up the MOTM Award as a result. He contributed to the scoring continually, getting over for his side’s first try as he rounded a couple of tacklers to score from close range. He converted three of his four kicks at goal and also had a hand in two of Scotland’s other tries. His distribution, as always, was superb and he started both of the attacks, which led to tries for Visser and Seymour, with some great passing. The out-half most certainly will be giving Warren Gatland a headache regarding his selection at number ten for the Lions this summer.

Stuart Hogg

As usual the number fifteen was a threat throughout the game. Though he didn’t get over the line for a try today, he managed to contribute to his side’s victory in every other way possible. He put them on the scoreboard after just four minutes, with a tremendous penalty goal from distance. He acted as another out-half throughout the first half, taking the heat off of Russell and getting the Scots out of trouble, with his cannon of a boot, time and time again. He also played a role in two of the tries. He put a deft chip in behind for Tim Visser’s five pointer and delayed his pass until the final moment before putting Tommy Seymour away down the wing. If England are beaten today the fullback could be an outside bet for player of the tournament.

Hamish Watson

It would be a sin to not pay homage to Scotland’s unsung hero. The flanker has been outstanding throughout this year’s competition, despite not always being Vern Cotter’s first choice at openside. The home side’s main ball carrier on the day, he ran with ball in hand ten times and made the most metres of any of the forwards. He led his side in tackles made as well, eleven in total with none missed. He also was one of the only Scottish forwards to not concede a penalty throughout the entire eighty minutes. It was a testament to his great work at the breakdown that the Scots won 99% of their rucks. A true seven’s performance by the Edinburgh man today.