Scotland vs France: Key areas in the Six Nations clash

Scotland started slowly against both Italy and Wales.

They were punished in the monsoons in Rome despite arriving within touching distance of Italy, and were eventually released from prison in Cardiff.

If they start slow against France, the game will likely end very quickly.

Fabien Galthie’s side have started strongly in each game so far, managing six first-quarter tries across their three matches.

Ireland trailed 22-0 at half-time in Paris, conceded to Wales after 90 seconds, and Italy trailed 19-0 before the half-hour mark.

Every team wants to start every match quickly, but it’s not that simple. The opposition launches the same explosion from the blocs to begin with.

But Scotland clearly cannot afford to build into the game, they need the kind of start they got against England when they led 17-0.

France is unlikely to be as charitable as England, but starting with the same precision and intensity is very important if they want to continue the title fight until the final weekend.