Scotland vs Ireland live: Latest score as Paddy Jackson try puts Irish ahead after second-half fightback
Scotland welcome Ireland to Murrayfield in the Six Nations opener
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Six Nations kicks off at Murrayfield on Saturday as much-fancied Ireland face many people’s dark horses Scotland.
It is Scotland coach Vern Cotter’s last Championships in charge of the team after it was announced he would be replaced by Gregor Townsend in the summer.
Ireland are coming into the fixture on the back of a 2016 which saw then beat all three Southern Hemisphere giants, Australia, South Africa and, most impressively, New Zealand.
What time does it start?
Kick-off is at 2.30pm on Saturday 4 January.
Where can I watch it?
The game is shown live on BBC1 at 10.30pm. You can also follow The Independent’s live blog for all the action.
Follow it live...
Odds…
Scotland: 37/19
Ireland: 3/7
Draw: 19/1
(Odds provided by 888sport)
Past three meetings…
Ireland 35 Scotland 25 - Six Nations 2016
Ireland 28 Scotland 22 – Rugby World Cup 2015
Scotland 10 Ireland 40 – Six Nations 2015
Form guide…
Scotland: LLWWLW
Ireland: LWWLWW
Here we go with the anthems, Ireland's call up first. Now it really feels like Six Nations day!
Flower of Scotland rings out at Murrayfield with the chilling sound of bagpipes filling the air, the Scottish team looking incredibly focused. As the bagpipes cut, they leave the anthem to the thousands of Scots in attendance to belt out the final verse. Spine-tingling stuff.
But with the anthems out the way, it means we're ready to go. It's kick-off time!
1 mins: A hanging kick is collected safely by Simon Zebo, and with Ireland safely taking the ball to the edge of the 22, Rob Kearney boots it into touch for the first lineout.
2 mins: The first scrum doesn't move an inch for about 10 seconds, but Ireland get a big momentum boost as they get a shove on and win the penalty. Jackson kicks to touch.
4 mins: Scotland turn the ball over just inside their half and Laidlaw floats a beautiful pass out to Jones on the run, and he releases Maitland into the Irish half. They recycle the ball and move right as they shift into the 22, but the ball is spilled and Ireland breathe a sigh of relief.
4 mins: First blood drawn - literally - as Fraser Brown leaves the field with a bloody nose. Ross Ford comes on in his place, but they'll patch us brown in no time and he'll be sure to return.
5 mins: Two scrums, two penalties to the Irish, and this is worrying already for the home side as they won't be able to set up any base to attack from with a solid scrum.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments