Scotland claim famous victory over England

Scotland claimed a famous Six Nations victory over England yesterday when they beat the world champions 18-12 in a game without any tries but full of passion and commitment.

It was only Scotland's second victory over their southern rivals in 15 years and ranks alongside the successes of 2000 and 1990 as, once again, they foiled English hopes of a grand slam.

England went into the game as heavy favourites after two championship wins but failed to impose themselves on a Scottish side who stunned France in their opening match and tackled like demons.

It was 3-3 at half-time in a tight game with few try-scoring opportunities for either side, though England blew their best chance when Ben Cohen dropped the ball with the line in sight.

England briefly led at the start of the second half but Scotland kept their discipline and Chris Paterson, with four penalties, and Dan Parks with a drop goal, kept them in the clear.

Charlie Hodgson landed four penalties for England, and also missed one.

It was a great day for Scotland captain Jason White, who made his debut in the 2000 victory but has been through some hard times since.

"It was brilliant, we've been getting better every game we had and we backed it up today with great team spirit," White said.

"We didn't have much ball today but we kept going - it was one of the best days of my life, I'm just so happy."

Scotland coach Frank Hadden said: "I'm so proud. It was a sensational defensive effort. Make no mistake, England played pretty well but our defence was magnificent.

"As the day went on I really thought we gained a momentum and England began to struggle a bit."

Scotland, England and France all have two wins. Ireland host Wales today.

Late tries give France flattering 37-12 win

Mis-firing France overturned a first-half deficit before eventually pulling clear for a flattering 37-12 victory over Italy in yesterday's match at the Stade de France.

Three penalties and a drop goal by flyhalf Ramiro Pez had the Italians 12-8 up at half-time and dreaming of their first-ever away win in the tournament and a second against France in 27 matches.

However, as so often before, they fell away after the break, failing to add to their tally as France took control.

The hosts scored tries by flanker Yannick Nyanaga, prop Peter De Villiers, and in the last three minutes, winger Aurelien Rougerie and flyhalf Frederic Michalak, adding to number eight Thomas Lievremont's first-half effort.

It was France's second win following their shock opening round defeat by Scotland but, as against Ireland, they struggled to stamp their authority on a game they were expected to win comfortably.

"I think we didn't play well at all, though the Italians are a good team" Nyanaga told the BBC.