Telfer praises quick-thinking backs

Scotland coach Jim Telfer summarised the disparity between the teams simply: "When we do get it into the backs we have good decision-makers in midfield and that made all the difference." The match statistics reinforce the former Lions coach's assertion.

In terms of possession there was little difference, but it was in turnovers and the ability to maximise the return of same that the Scots were in a different class. When they broke, they did so with conviction and at times impeccable judgment en route to the Irish line.

It was a match billed as a clash between the Scottish backs and the Irish pack, but Telfer was quick to point out that the Scottish pack had acquitted themselves well.

"I think they took some time to sort each other out in the forwards. We were very frustrated with the slowness of the ball coming back in the first half.

"All through the match we didn't get that much quick ball. I think we would have benefited as we did on turnovers. That's a credit to the players' tackling. When we do get it to the backs, we have those good decision-makers. I thought we were very good defending our own line but not so good defending the other 90 metres.

"For a top class side, and we hope to be that, we have to defend a lot better in midfield areas," he added. "Rob Henderson, for example, ran through half the team before he was hauled down. Certainly we defended well at crucial times near our own line and that takes bravery. I think Ireland will be disappointed that they actually didn't seem to have the patience and the finishing power to score tries. They certainly had some chances."

This was to be Telfer's last match in charge at Murrayfield before he steps down at the end of the season. He was adamant that it wasn't a consideration on the day. "Just a relief to win. We had been under an enormous amount of pressure having won one and lost one. If we were beaten today people would have said that it was a false dawn.

"It's important to win your matches at home. As far as the other thing is concerned, I haven't thought about it. The players deserve all the accolades they are probably going to get. I'll be somewhere around the next time that Scotland play at home, probably not biting my nails as much."