Scotland 31-20 England: We handed over to Gregor Townsend – Sioni Toepolo

Scotland registered an impressive Calcutta Cup win for coach Gregor Townsend who is under pressure after a week of “guilt”, says captain Sione Tuipulotu.

On the back of an opening Six Nations defeat to Italy in torrential rain in Rome which brought increased focus on Townsend’s tenure, Scotland’s title chances were on the line as they welcomed an in-form England to Murrayfield.

They made a stunning run in their opener, going 17-0 up within 15 minutes, a goal they never looked like they would give up.

Townsend’s side played with speed and verve as Finn Russell put his stamp on this famous old fixture.

The Scottish fly-half set up Huw Jones’ first try with a brilliant pass before spreading play right and then left for Jamie Ritchie to cross over.

Even as England hit back through Henry Arundel – who was later sent off for a second yellow card offense – Scotland continued to play with freedom and confidence and added a third goal after Ellis Genge failed to collect Russell’s chip over the top and Ben White capitalized.

The visitors, having won their last 12 Tests, got back into the contest after half-time but Scotland stood strong in defense and scored a bonus point try through Jones after George Ford’s drop-goal effort was disallowed.

“I am very proud,” Tuipulotu said.

“What we went through last week was really painful and we understood that because we deserved it. In the end Italy was better than us.

“We really felt like our backs were against the wall and we showed up today.

“I felt guilty. Training is a difficult task because when things are going well you get all the positives but when things are not going well you get all the criticism.

“We supported our coach this week. I’m proud of the boys who supported our coach and delivered.”