Jonathan Humphreys skippered Wales 19 times from 1995 to 2003, but is now plotting his home nation’s downfall as Scotland forwards coach. The former Cardiff hooker watched his side fall to a 15-9 defeat to England on the opening day of the RBS Six Nations.
And if the Scots are going to get back to winning ways, they will have to claim a first win over Wales under Warren Gatland. The Kiwi has masterminded eight straight victories over the men from BT Murrayfield, and is hoping another can kickstart their campaign after a 16-16 draw in Ireland.
But Humphreys insists Scotland are improving, despite their defeat to the Red Rose.
He said: “We’re all frustrated by the outcome against England because we felt we had a few opportunities to score and win the game. In a six-point match it comes down to really fine margins and we are disappointed with some of the execution we got.
“In the last 18 months we have made incredible strides forward and it’s just frustrating that we don’t see it in the Six Nations in turning these close losses into wins.”
Scotland found opportunities hard to come by against Eddie Jones’ England side, but Humphreys believes his side will soon find their attacking rhythm.
He said: “The lesson for us is we got into their 22 eight times and didn’t come away with anything.
“Some of our approach work was good, some of our strike work was really good, we didn’t have much opportunity to attack from set-piece in the second half and had limited numbers. But it’s about the small details. It’s about training and trying to make things habit. If you go into these games thinking about anything other than the moment, then you’re in trouble.”
