Scotland 31-20 England: Gregor Townsend's side regain Calcutta Cup in Murrayfield thriller

In a remarkable turnaround at Murrayfield, Scotland delivered a commanding performance to triumph over England in an exhilarating Calcutta Cup clash, securing a bonus-point victory with a scoreline of 31-20. Following a disappointing loss to Italy earlier in the Six Nations, the Scots, guided by the exceptional Finn Russell, displayed a level of precision and intensity that left their rivals reeling. From the outset, Scotland surged to a strong 17-0 advantage inside the first 15 minutes, with tries from Huw Jones, Jamie Ritchie, and Ben White complemented by Russell’s accurate kicking.

England’s campaign faced significant disruption after wing Henry Arundell received two yellow cards in the first half, forcing the team to spend 30 minutes with just 14 players on the field. Despite Arundell’s initial try and George Ford’s penalties, Scotland maintained their dominance, closing the first half at 24-10. Early in the second half, Ford managed to reduce the deficit, but Scotland quickly responded when Jones capitalized on a charged-down drop goal, sprinting 60 metres to score and extend the lead. England’s efforts to claw back into the game only resulted in a late try from Ben Earl, which narrowed the margin but did not alter the outcome.

Russell’s masterful playmaking was once again central to Scotland’s success. He opened the scoring with an early penalty, setting the tone for a highly physical and fast-paced game that England struggled to match. His creativity shone through when he executed a clever one-handed flick to Jones, who evaded Maro Itoje to touch down. Later, Russell orchestrated a brilliant move with Sione Tuipulotu providing the long pass to Ritchie for another try. The fly-half’s influence was further underlined when he capitalized on a mistake by Ellis Genge, allowing Ben White to secure Scotland’s third try despite heavy pressure from the English defense.

England’s scrum proved effective at times, and Ford’s boot kept them within touching distance during periods of sustained pressure; however, Scotland’s resolute defense and relentless counterattacks stymied any serious comeback. With injuries forcing substitutions on both sides, Scotland’s ability to maintain composure and intensity was evident, particularly in the latter stages of the match. When Matt Fagerson charged down Ford’s drop goal attempt and released Jones for his second try, the game was effectively sealed. Despite England’s late surge and a converted try from Earl, the hosts held firm to celebrate an emphatic victory that marked a rejuvenation of Scotland’s Six Nations campaign under coach Gregor Townsend

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