Scotland Player Ratings: Fiji Autumn Nations Series
Scotland's Autumn Nations Series continued with a thrilling 35-22 win over Fiji, a match that showcased both the strengths and weaknesses of Gregor Townsend's side. Let's take a look at the individual performances, with ratings out of 10:
Backs:
- Blair Kinghorn (9/10): Kinghorn was the standout performer for Scotland. His kicking game was exceptional, contributing a whopping 15 points with the boot, including a crucial penalty in the dying minutes. His running game was equally impressive, making incisive breaks and providing a real threat throughout the match.
- Duhan van der Merwe (7/10): The winger scored a vital try early in the second half, showcasing his trademark power and speed. While he had fewer opportunities than in previous matches, he remained a constant danger for the Fijian defense.
- Sione Tuipulotu (7/10): The center was a powerful ball carrier, making tough yards and disrupting the Fijian defensive line. His strong defensive play also proved crucial in containing Fiji's dynamic attack.
- Chris Harris (6/10): While not as spectacular as his fellow backline players, Harris provided solid support and efficient play, playing a key role in the Scottish victory.
- Finn Russell (6/10): Russell was a mixed bag, displaying moments of brilliance with his creative passing and kicking, but also making some questionable decisions. His potential to control the game remains undeniable.
Forwards:
- Jamie Ritchie (8/10): The captain led by example, playing with immense intensity and physicality. His work at the breakdown was crucial in slowing down the Fijian momentum, while he also contributed significantly to the Scottish forward pack's dominance.
- Matt Fagerson (7/10): Fagerson was a powerful force in the Scottish scrum and lineout, providing valuable platform for the backs. His work rate and physicality were key in disrupting Fiji's attacking rhythm.
- Zander Fagerson (7/10): The prop had a solid performance, anchoring the scrum and consistently delivering impactful carries. His experience and physical presence proved invaluable in a fiercely contested match.
- Grant Gilchrist (6/10): Gilchrist was a dependable presence in the lineout, providing crucial lineout steals. His work rate and commitment to the cause were evident throughout the match.
- Jonny Gray (6/10): Gray put in a strong shift in the second row, providing solid carries and disrupting the Fijian maul. His experience and leadership proved valuable for the Scottish pack.
Substitutes:
- Sam Skinner (7/10): Skinner brought a fresh burst of energy to the forward pack, proving his ability to contribute significantly as a substitute.
- Josh Bayliss (6/10): Bayliss came on and made an immediate impact with his powerful running and commitment to defense.
- Rory Darge (6/10): Darge provided a strong presence at the breakdown, disrupting Fijian ball carriers and adding valuable energy to the Scottish pack.
- Ewan Ashman (6/10): Ashman provided stability in the scrum and contributed valuable carries during his time on the pitch.
Overall:
This match was a testament to Scotland's ability to adapt and overcome challenges. While Fiji presented a formidable threat with their pace and agility, Scotland's forward pack dominance and Kinghorn's exceptional kicking game ultimately proved decisive. The win against Fiji was a valuable one for Scotland, showing they can handle difficult opponents and remain competitive in the upcoming Six Nations.
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