Beaming Robinson full of praise

SCOTTISH REACTION:ANDY ROBINSON is not one of those coaches that radiates light heartedness through a natural glow. He generally gives the impression that he is shouldering all of he problems of the Scottish rugby world. The former England boss has that look of the bulldog that has just chewed the wasp.

And so as close as we may ever see to an all singing all dancing Robinson entered the interview room under the Hogan Stand and another aspect of the man appeared from the furls and furrows of his face. Ambition fulfilled, Robinson could hardly contain his mix of delight and pride.

“Ireland played really, really well at the start and I thought at one stage it was going to be a 30-pointer,” he said straight up. “But we held on, we got to the pace of the game, and performed really well. I thought we played really well after a bit of a slow start where I thought Ireland looked tremendous. We played into the game and controlled it. To get over the wire was the key thing, to work out how to win the game and do so.”

“Obviously it feels fantastic. I think we’ve deserved a lot more than we’ve got in this championship. We came here full-blooded.”

The narrow margins are what the players continually speak about. Robinson more than most can understand those turning points after a series of frustrating matches. Given the way Dan Parks was kicking throughout, though, the final cut into Irish hearts had little to do with fortune.

“We got a bit of luck at the end of the game, got a penalty near their line and Dan made a great kick, but I think for the endeavour and the way we’ve tried to play this season, the guys should take some real credit,” added Robinson. “They’re hurting, they’re tired, and they deserve the plaudits for this win. I’m impressed with the way they have approached this game and approached every game. Like all things we kept the composure right to the end.

Parks was indeed the difference and despite a loud chorus of booing as he was about to take the match winning kick the Australian- born outhalf held his nerve.

“I was just delighted I got a good strike on it and it went through,” said Parks. “The pressure for the kick is the reason you play the game, because of moments like that. They make you feel great when they work out. You’re either a hero or a zero and thankfully today I’m a hero.”