Records come second for Paterson
Chris Paterson admitted Scotland's result in their Test against Argentina in Rosario is more important than any personal milestones he will pass when the sides meet on Saturday.
Chris Paterson admitted Scotland's result in their Test against Argentina in Rosario is more important than any personal milestones he will pass when the sides meet on Saturday.
The 30-year-old Gloucester full-back will equal Scott Murray's cap record with his 87th Test appearance for Scotland at the Gigante de Arroyito stadium.
But Paterson will only be able to savour the achievement if Frank Hadden's team emerges victorious from the match.
“I like being part of the team. I don't think about my benefit,” said Paterson.
“I want as many caps as possible and as many points as possible but always to be productive for the squad.
“The record is a starting point and not a finishing point. The record doesn't disturb me at night.”
Nevertheless, the 659-point man will try to enrich his career by getting closer to Gavin Hastings' all-time Scottish record of 667.
“It is nice to be so close,” said Paterson.
“I would really enjoy getting there, but at the end they are just points, numbers over numbers, nothing really important if the team lose.”
Scotland boss Frank Hadden has fielded his strongest side as he looks ahead to the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand.
“We must win the series to go up the ranking. We have no choice. We cannot go into the next World Cup with a seeding of tenth,” said Hadden.
“We have a very difficult job as Argentina had in the past with other better placed teams.
“It is very difficult to progress if you don't win these matches. You need to be on top to have a good seeding in the World Cup.”
The former Edinburgh boss has given centre Ben Cairns, wing Thom Evans and lock Matt Mustchin their first chance of proving their skills with the senior squad after they impressed him in the Magners League and in training in Buenos Aires.
“The key for playing for Scotland it is to play consistently well,” added Hadden.
“It is not about having a good game here and there; it is not about suddenly appearing on the scene and looking like you could play at international level. It is about playing constantly well at a club level.
“That is also the reason that I have named Ben, Thom and Matt. They have performed consistently well for the last year and have shown a lot of determination and courage.
“Thom, we think, should be a very good player in two years time – but he is the best this weekend, so he is in. He is a very exciting talent and I think that everybody here will be very impressed with him.”