Scotland returned to winning ways in the 2025 Six Nations with a 35-29 bonus-point victory over Wales at Murrayfield, surviving a late Welsh resurgence to secure the Doddie Weir Trophy. The hosts showcased their attacking prowess in a dominant first half, but a sloppy second period allowed Wales to claw their way back into contention, though not enough to overturn the deficit. The result extended Wales’ winless run in Test rugby to 16 matches and their Six Nations losing streak to 10, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the table.
First Half: Scotland’s Attacking Masterclass
From the outset, Scotland asserted dominance with an incredible display of attacking rugby. Full-back Blair Kinghorn, who would later be named Player of the Match, crossed the line twice in the opening 40 minutes, showcasing his pace and finishing ability. Centre Tom Jordan also bagged a brace, capitalizing on slick interplay with fly-half Finn Russell, while winger Darcy Graham marked his return from injury with a well-taken try. Russell’s playmaking, including a deft dummy and delayed pass for Graham’s score, elevated Scotland’s multiphase attacks to an art form.
By halftime, Scotland had raced to a 28-8 lead, with their five-try haul already securing the bonus point. Wales managed a solitary response through full-back Blair Murray, but their defensive frailties were exposed, compounded by a sin-bin for tighthead prop WillGriff John due to repeated team infringements. The visitors trailed by 20 points at the break, seemingly out of their depth against a rampant Scottish side.
Second Half: Wales Fight Back, Scotland Falter
The second half told a different story as Scotland’s intensity waned and ill-discipline crept in. Kinghorn completed his double early in the period, pushing Scotland beyond 30 points and appearing to seal a comfortable victory. However, Wales found a spark under interim coach Matt Sherratt, mounting a spirited comeback that tested the hosts’ resolve.
Tries from centre Ben Thomas and lock Teddy Williams narrowed the gap, exposing Scotland’s vulnerability after their bench was introduced. The Scots struggled at the scrum following the departure of tighthead Zander Fagerson, with replacements Will Hurd, Ewan Ashman, and Rory Sutherland unable to maintain the set-piece dominance. Wales capitalized on this, and in the final play of the game, centre Max Llewellyn crossed for a consolation try, bringing the scoreline closer than the match’s narrative suggested.
Despite the late scare, Scotland held firm to claim the win, though their failure to maintain control for the full 80 minutes left head coach Gregor Townsend with something to ponder ahead of their final-round clash with France. Wales, meanwhile, showed glimpses of improvement but remain winless, with their next test against England in Cardiff offering one last chance to salvage pride.
