Scotland's rugby team have climbed to their highest-ever position of sixth in the IRB rankings, following their 21-17 win over reigning world champions, South Africa, last weekend. The Scots, who were indebted to the boot of Dan Parks for all their points, have moved in front of their Magners League counterparts, Ireland, Wales and Italy.

The news represents a remarkable transformation from the gloom which enveloped the sport in Scotland, after the 49-3 demolition by the All Blacks on November 13.

And, understandably, the Scotland coach, Andy Robinson, whose side have won four of their last five matches, was delighted with his men's rise up the Test pecking order. 

"What pleases me is the attitude and determination of our squad to keep improving," said Robinson.

"You climb the world rankings by winning games and it is very important that we build on Saturday's result by delivering again when we face very tough opponents in Samoa in Aberdeen on Saturday."

Tickets are selling fast for that contest, with organisers hopeful of reaching the 20,500 capacity at Pittodrie.

And although the Samoans have produced some creditable performances on their tour of Britain and Ireland, they are not expected to pose the same threat as one of the sport's major powers.

In which light, given the fact both Ireland and Wales face major challenges in Argentina and New Zealand this weekend, it may be that the gap between the Scots and their Celtic cousins grows even bigger.