Townsend on Dempsey, drop-offs and 'biggest challenge in world rugby'
- Published
Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has been speaking to the media before the final Six Nations game against France on Saturday.
Here are the key points from his press conference:
Following "one of his best ever games for Scotland" against Wales, Jack Dempsey misses out with a tight hamstring, while Sam Skinner, who "would have been in the selection mix" is also unavailable.
Townsend reiterated facing this France team in Paris, in the form they're in right now, is "probably the biggest challenge in world rugby".
"Quality group" Scotland need to deliver the level of performance they've done in previous big away wins, to get victory said the head coach, like in Paris in 2021.
Scotland are "aware of the context" with France going for the championship and expects an "amazing atmosphere".
Townsend added Scotland "thrive with the challenge and the atmosphere".
The head coach is not overly concerned about drop-offs during games, adding it's Test rugby and momentum swings will happen against good teams.
Scotland "didn't get the flow" they wanted with the changes against Wales but he wanted to "protect players for a big week".
Gregor Brown is "technically very good" and will bring energy and "excellent" ball-carrying on his first Six Nations start, said Townsend, as he replaces Jonny Gray in the second row.