Scotland’s assistant coach Graham Steadman maintained that the Six Nations championship is still there for the taking after the team’s victory over Italy.
Steadman is hoping to capitalise on the success when Scotland face Ireland at Murrayfield on Saturday, with the advantage of inside knowledge from the former Ireland defence coach.
He said: "I’ve mentioned to the players that I can give them information on the inside track, whether it be individually or collectively as a team."
Sitting at the top of the table having won all three games, Ireland are playing with a great deal of confidence. A win for Scotland, however could move them into the top three from their current position at fifth and blow the competition wide open.
The assistant coach emphasised the need for Scotland to raise their game if they have any chance of overcoming the table leaders and particularly to avoid their tendency to give away unnecessary penalties.
"I’m not too happy with the fact we’ve conceded 38 penalties to date, and of those 22 were kickable offences.
"It’s something we need to tighten up on."
Scotland find themselves in a favourable position going into the Ireland game with the return of Jim Hamilton, Nathan Hines and Rory Lamont, allowing the coaches to select from a full-strength squad.
"It’s a massive boost to have these senior, quality players available for selection. It certainly gives everybody a big lift," Steadman said.
