England Ends Five-Year Drought with Narrow Victory Over Scotland in Calcutta Cup

2025-03-02

England narrowly defeated Scotland 16-15 in a dramatic Calcutta Cup clash at Twickenham, ending their five-year winless streak in the fixture. The match, played on Saturday, saw Scotland dominate much of the game but fail to capitalise on key opportunities, with fly-half Finn Russell missing three crucial conversions, including a last-gasp attempt that would have secured victory.

Scotland started strongly, scoring early through scrum-half Ben White, followed by a try from centre Huw Jones. However, England responded with a try from winger Tommy Freeman and relied on the boot of Marcus Smith and Fin Smith, who slotted two penalties and a long-range kick respectively, to edge ahead. Despite Scotland’s late surge, with Duhan van der Merwe scoring a stunning try in the 79th minute, Russell’s missed conversion left Scotland one point short.

England’s defence, particularly in the second half, proved decisive as they withstood Scotland’s attacking pressure. Head coach Steve Borthwick praised his team’s resilience, acknowledging the need for improvement but highlighting their ability to “find a way to win.” Captain Maro Itoje echoed this sentiment, emphasising the team’s character and fight.

For Scotland, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow. Coach Gregor Townsend praised his team’s effort and execution but lamented missed opportunities. Van der Merwe, named man of the match, admitted Scotland lacked possession in the second half, while co-captain Rory Darge acknowledged the need for better execution in critical moments.

The victory keeps England’s Six Nations title hopes alive, with matches against Italy and Wales to come. Scotland, meanwhile, face an uphill battle to stay in contention after back-to-back losses. The result marks a significant shift in the Calcutta Cup rivalry, with England finally breaking Scotland’s recent dominance.

Six Nations 2025: England and Scotland face off in 'do-or-die' match

England and Scotland meet in the Calcutta Cup match on Saturday, with both needing a win to keep alive their Six Nations title hopes.

www.bbc.com

England vs Scotland: Six Nations - LIVE

Steve Borthwick’s resurgent side hold on for another tight win after costly Finn Russell miss

www.standard.co.uk

England vs Scotland LIVE: Result and reaction from Six Nations clash at Twickenham

England 16-15 Scotland: The hosts clung on as Finn Russell’s missed touchline conversion ended Scotland’s dominance in this fixture

www.independent.co.uk

England vs Scotland LIVE: Red Roses win Calcutta Cup after late drama

Express Sport keeps you covered throughout a busy day in the Six Nations.

www.express.co.uk

England vs Scotland predictions, betting tips and odds: get England to win at 40-1 or Scotland at 100-1 with Paddy Power

Free rugby union tips, best bets and analysis for England vs Scotland in the Six Nations on Saturday. Plus Paddy Power are offering enhanced odds on b

www.racingpost.com