We know how Wales will play – Johnson

Editor

Scotland caretaker coach Scott Johnson believes he knows what to expect from Wales when the two sides clash on Saturday.

Scotland caretaker coach Scott Johnson believes he knows what to expect from Wales when the two sides clash at Murrayfield on Saturday.

The former Ospreys boss anticipates the Grand Slam champions to stick to their usual game-plan, especially their bliz defence.

“They haven't done anything different for five years and I like that,” he told Walesonline.

“Sides are confident enough to know what they are. It's about understanding what you are.

“It's as much about people and what they want to be and not deluding yourself.

“I'd like to be Brad Pitt, but the reality is different.

“I'm trying to avoid this up and down ride. Some days you won't be as good as the opposition.

“Sometimes you do that but I don't want us to have an identity crisis.

“Know what we are, know what we're good at and keep doing it.”

Scotland lost their opener to England but then claimed vital victories over Italy and Ireland – their first first back-to-back Six Nations since 2001.

Johnson has identified Wales openside flanker Justin Tipuric – whom he coached at the Ospreys – as Wales' biggest threat.

Scotland captain Kelly Brown – who usually plays on the blindside for Saracens – is filling in on the openside for the injured Ross Rennie and it will be interesting to see how he fares at the breakdown against Tipuric.

“Kelly, by his own admission, is not a seven but he's done a great job,” said Johnson.

“It's about trying to get the balance right, but we haven't had a seven available for selection.”