SCOTLAND were today set the challenge of achieving consistent success against leading rugby powers going into what will be one of the most eagerly awaited matches ever – a World Cup pool game with England in 2011.
The draw for the New Zealand-hosted tournament has paired the auld enemies alongside Argentina and a couple of qualifiers with two teams going through to the knock out stages.
One of the players who figured in the only previous World Cup clash be
tween the countries in the 1991 semi-final at Murrayfield believes the draw has handed coach Frank Hadden's team the perfect incentive to up their act.
Says Scott Hastings: "I'm optimistic that the building blocks are in place for a successful Scotland team right through to the next World Cup. But what has to happen is that the players learn to produce top performances on a regular basis."
The message from ex-centre Hastings is that one-off displays won't be sufficient to carry Scotland through a global campaign.
But the decision to undertake the draw three years in advance can, he says, aid preparations.
"Already this is a great draw," says Hastings. "Scotland versus England is just the sort of combination to get people talking and increase awareness of rugby among future generations.
"Rugby, if it is to expand, must also produce shocks as well though and I think Scotland are well placed to build up well to the next World Cup.
"By and large the Scots squad are young enough to stay together and be able to cope with the incredible level of expectation that surrounds a Scotland v England match.
"Back in 1991 the tension was something else and affected both teams before England edged through 9-6.
"With hindsight there was perhaps a seed of doubt in our minds that day.
"England were coming off the back of a famous quarter-final win over the French in Paris while they also had revenge for a Grand Slam decider defeat a year earlier in their minds.
"That made it a little bit harder for Scotland and possibly swung the balance England's way.
"Their victory in the 2003 World Cup and two other final appearances means England remain a powerhouse but, with belief and proper preparation, even at this distance Scotland can make an impact.
"Really, though, when it comes to Scotland and England it is impossible to base predictions on the form book.
"What I do know is that Scotland will have to play to potential, eliminate errors and give 100 per cent effort while the anticipation surrounding the fixture will be huge.
"And that is not to discount Argentina who are a great side, too."
The full article contains 457 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
