Hansen backs Scotland for success

Editor

New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen believes that Scotland are heading in the right direction after losing 16-24 to the All Blacks.

New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen believes that Scotland are heading in the right direction after losing 16-24 to the All Blacks.

Hansen made 13 changes to the side that defeated England a week before at Twickenham and a fresh All Blacks side laboured to victory at Murrayfield.

Jeremy Thrush’s try wrapped up the win, with Scotland though backing up their good performance against Argentina the week before.

Hansen pinpointed the areas where he felt Scotland fell short but was full of praise, expecting them to be a contender in the Six Nations.

“I think Scotland are a very good side on the way up. I really do mean that sincerely,” said Hansen.

“There was a period in the game where they wanted to play in their 22 and maybe when they review the game they will say they should have kicked that, because we [the All Blacks] defended that really well and put them under pressure.

“But they are a bit like the All Blacks team (today). They are young and learning and will get a lot of this game – a lot of confidence for sure.

“I think by the time the Six Nations comes around they will be right in it.”

New Zealand play their last Test of the year against Wales next weekend in Cardiff.