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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Mark Pirie

Scotland stun England in Six Nations opener to earn first Twickenham win since 1983 as Calcutta Cup returns to Murrayfield

"That's the best I've seen Scotland play, ever," said Jim Hamilton at full-time.

It's hard to disagree with the former lock after a historic win over England to ensure the perfect start with to their Six Nations campaign.

The Scots' historic 11-6 win ended their Twickenham hoodoo and secured their first Calcutta Cup win at the ground since 1983.

In truth, it could have been more as Gregor Townsend's side put in a dominant display in London.

Finn Russell kicked the Scots into early lead from between the posts after the ill-disciplined hosts gave away a series of penalties.

Things would get even better for the visitors as Duhan van der Merwe powered his way over the line from around seven metres out, despite a series of English players attempt to halt his progress.

However, Russell's conversion was just wide from a tight angle.

Finn Russell of Scotland kicks his sides first penalty during the Guinness Six Nations match between England and Scotland at Twickenham (getty)

Despite Scotland's impressive display, shortly after the first try Eddie Jones’ side would get a foothold in the game as Owen Farrell’s penalty got points on the board.

Farrell’s kicking would cut the lead ahead of the break to just two points  with another successful kick, after playmaker Russell was penalised and sent to the sin bin.

However, an impressive spell of possession play without their key man saw Scotland see out the his time off the park and earn a penalty. Immediately after arriving on the park Russell converted to increase the advantage.

That acted as wake-up call for England as the game moved into the closing stages, but they struggled to break down the resolute away side despite holding the majority of possession.

Scotland's Duhan van der Merwe powers through for his side's first try (SNS)

In fact, Scotland came closest to extending the advantage as a kick from Stuart Hogg on the right flank narrowly went wide of the posts as the rain and wind picked up.

In the end, the top defensive display of Jonny Gray and an unbelievable challenge from Hamish Watson with England on the counter kept the hosts at bay.

After the huge moment, lets hope it's not another 38 years until a massive victory over the auld enemy.

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