6 days ago
46
The only question to ask after this latest Scotland shambles is: does Gregor Townsend know it’s over?
Because it is. It’s done. Too many defeats. Too many inquests. Too many times we’ve been left wondering just how our national side have somehow thrown away victory.
Against Argentina at Murrayfield, their 33-24 defeat was up there with the very worst of the calamities.
It was always going to take something special to put last weekend’s missed opportunity against the All Blacks in the shade, but this performance managed it and then some.
The Scots were 21-0 ahead and cruising. It had been a performance full of powerful forward play and solid decision-making. And then it collapsed.
You can blame Finn Russell’s errant pass in the second half for being the catalyst for Scotland’s downfall but, really, they should be made of sterner stuff than this.
Head coach Gregor Townsend has to accept responsibility for Scotland's recent failures
Scotland's players have their heads in their hands after the 33-24 defeat by Argentina
Finn Russell is part of a talented Scotland team who are accused of buckling under pressure
Townsend claimed afterwards that he doesn’t believe there is a 'mental fragility’ about his side. And that’s why it is over. That’s why he must go.
He no longer has the answers to his team’s problems. In truth, he hasn’t had them for quite some time.
This isn’t about Red Bull or Scottish Rugby’s perplexing handling of that unnecessary sideshow.
It’s simply about winning games, and Townsend isn’t winning enough. He’s certainly not winning the matches that would truly elevate his side to a force to be reckoned with.
Argentina didn’t fear Scotland going into this game - and not one side in next year’s Six Nations will fear them now.
They will look at Townsend’s record, at Scotland’s record, and believe that - no matter the score - put the Scots under pressure and they will buckle.
Last week, Russell spoke about the players taking more control and more responsibility in driving standards. They are, of course, as guilty as Townsend. Sione Tuipulotu admitted as much after the game.
Yet, there is obviously talent there and, as is always the way in sport, the buck stops with the boss. It’s Townsend who will, or should, carry the can.
Tonga await next weekend but, following that match, there is no need to delay a change. Giving Townsend another Six Nations would be folly.
He has been a terrific servant to the Scottish game as both a player and coach. But it’s time for change.
Scotland need a reset. Franco Smith is looked upon as the natural successor, but thought should be given to someone who would really shake things up.
The game in this country needs a jolt. The players need be hauled out of their comfort zone. There are coaches out there who would tick that box - and a few Irish candidates who would certainly make life interesting.
Will it happen? Well, that’s another question we must await the answer to...
