Finn Russell's wizardry gives Scotland a magic show to remember | Robert Kitson


Scotland’s master blender was at the heart of everything they did in their deserved Calcutta Cup victory over England

When a rivalry has been maturing for 150 years, the taste of success is always intoxicating. For Scotland this was as special as they come, a Calcutta Cup moment to toast for many decades. Up went Gregor Townsend’s arms at the final whistle and an entire nation rose with him. After 38 years of failing to conquer Twickenham, it is finally England’s turn to stare mournfully at the bottom of an empty glass.

It was totally deserved, too. Any other result would have been a travesty. Could this yet be Scotland’s year? There are still four rounds to go and Paris will be no picnic but at least they have broken their usually sluggish opening weekend habit and shown they can hold firm away from home. For 24 hours at least, they can raise a glass to the rugby fates and dream of even sweeter days to come.

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