Hogg 'devastated' after French defeat

By Mark Stevens
26/2/22

Captain Stuart Hogg said he was left "devastated" by the manner of Scotland’s 36-17 defeat to France in this season’s Six Nations Championship.

The Exeter Chiefs star was one of a number of Scotland players who allowed chances to go begging during their clash at Murrayfield after France had stormed into an early lead.

The visitors crossed twice in the first 13 minutes through Paul Willemse and Yoram Moefana to amass a lead that they would never sacrifice.

Scotland responded admirably, and were within two points thanks to Rory Darge's debut try, but went in at the break nine in arrears after Gael Fickou crossed to compound the pain of a glorious missed chance by the hosts.

Gregor Townsend's side - which also included Exeter’s Sam Skinner - were further punished for that profligacy after the break when Jonathan Danty benefitted from a fortuitous bounce and Damian Penaud plunged over twice in the second half to put the dominant French out of sight long before Duhan van der Merwe's final-minute score.

France now go to Cardiff in two weeks with a first title in 12 years in their sights, while Scotland travel to Italy knowing they are playing for little more than pride after another campaign of what ifs and maybes.

Post-game, Hogg said: "At times we played decent rugby, but we let ourselves down at vital times. Credit to France, they took their opportunities but did they have to work hard for the first three tries? Probably not, and we are bitterly disappointed with that.

"Myself, I let one go and we could have changed the momentum of the game and that is something I am devastated about. You have to be on the money for 80 minutes in Test match rugby. It is absolutely horrible for us."

Scotland sit on five points after three games, already nine points adrift of leaders France.