"National stereotypes often have some element of truth to them, but my experience of people from north of the border suggests the dour Scotsman trope does not. This erroneous view is never more evident than when applied to the subject of the Scotland national men's team in the November tests. Like a crystal clear stream feeding a distillery producing bottles of an adeptly aged, 80% cask strength spirit of optimism, hope springs eternal from fans and commentators alike among the reddening leaves and mellow fruitfulness."
"Past history suggests this is not misplaced as the Autumn has gleaned more Scotland wins than losses vs tier 1 opposition, including recent victories over Australia and current world champions South Africa. But, despite a couple of narrowish results in 2017 and 2022, a triumph over New Zealand has eluded the boys in blue. If rugby history has taught us anything, it's that the Blackness is hard to overcome."
National stereotypes often have some element of truth but the dour Scotsman trope does not fit the Scotland rugby fanbase, which remains optimistic. Hope springs eternal during the November tests, buoyed by recent wins over Australia and current world champions South Africa. Scotland has more Autumn wins than losses against tier-1 opposition, yet a win over New Zealand has eluded the team despite narrow losses in 2017 and 2022. Rugby history demonstrates the All Blacks are a very tough opponent. The current Scotland squad arrives in good form after a comprehensive win over the USA, while New Zealand appear less than vintage, keeping verdicts cautious.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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