Cautious Kellock

I was at the Italy game on Saturday, and what disappointed me most was was how cautious Scotland were towards the end of the game. Approaching the final quarter, 23-11 up, momentum on our sides and yet we kept opting to go for kicks at goal.
This happened twice, the most glaring of which occurred just on the 60th minute (see link)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/i/b013ywxl/?t=1h35m13s

It makes for interesting viewing, Max Evans is first on to the ball and looks to take it quickly, only to be called back by Parks. Desperate Dan than picks up the ball and is half a second away from giving Scotland an attacking 5m lineout, and the chance to bag another try, only for Dan to be called back by Captain Kellock and told to take the points. (which Dan misses, probably out of spite... )
Fascinating to see the displeasure on Dan's face at this decision as well as the crowds reaction to such a negative attitude.

I can see Kellock's thinking in that a 14 point cushion is a very healthy one to have. And yes it's never wise to underestimate the opposition, but the flip side is don't underestimate your own team...

What that clip definitely does show is that De Luca should have passed it to Walker! I was at the game and thought that once again someone had made a break and there was no one supporting them - but not this time. He even looked and saw that Walker was there! Good break though....


As for Kellock - it's all about building scores and winning, I'm glad he went for the points. Build a big enough lead then you can try things out.

True, looking back De Luca should have looked to keep the ball alive, kind of the story of Scotland's way of playing really, failing to capitalise on good line breaks.

Have to disagree with you over Kellock's decision, 11 points ahead going into the final quarter and the chance to have a 5m lineout, really wish we'd show more self belief.