Mick Cleary: Five things for Ireland to fear in Scotland

Ireland have not lost in Edinburgh since 2017 while Scotland travel south in a fortnight’s time looking to claim their fifth Calcutta Cup in succession.

FIVE THINGS TO FEAR: Ireland have not lost in Edinburgh since 2017 but Scotland are a team who are looking to lay down a marker in the 6N. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

1 – Scottish Craving for Affirmation

They can’t be rubbish again (can they?) Scotland’s record against Ireland is pitiful. Scotland’s record in the Six Nations is pitiful. Surely all that has to come to end one day. Is Sunday the day? Of course, we have been here before. Many times. And every time Scotland disappoint and Ireland duly notch a win. Ten in a row. One victory in 15 for the Scots who have never won a Six Nations title. They may be the reigning Five Nations champions, Andy Nicol’s side nipping in at the death as Wales denied England at Wembley to lift the trophy in 1999, but nothing since. Not even close. So, is this to be the year? They may have been hobbled by injury to the likes of captain, Sione Tuipulotu, but they still present a formidable challenge in the back line. This is their opportunity to embrace potential and play to form. Ireland, as ever, will listen to any bigging up of Scottish prospects and react accordingly.