Donal Lenihan: The key for Ireland - denying Scotland any reason to get their tails up

Scotland’s constant need to talk themselves up smacks of insecurity after years of failing to deliver when it matters most.

James Ryan and Dave Kilcoyne at Ireland squad training. Picture: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

1. Attack a brittle mindset

While there is merit in Paul O’Connell’s assertion that this is the best Scottish team he has been involved against as a player or coach, there is still a large element of doubt surrounding their ability to get the job done under pressure.