Scotland v France: The key areas in Six Nations encounter

Scotland started slowly against both Italy and Wales.

Despite being so close to Italy, they were punished in Rome’s monsoon and eventually released from prison in Cardiff.

If they start slowly against France, the game will be over very quickly.

Fabien Galthie’s side have been out of the blocks in every game so far, scoring six tries in the first quarter across three matches.

In Paris, Ireland were 22-0 down at half-time, Wales broke after 90 seconds and Italy were 19-0 down by the half-hour mark.

Every team wants to start every match fast, but it’s never that simple. The opposition aims to start with the same explosion from the blocs.

But it is clear that Scotland cannot afford to get into the game; They need a start like the one they had against England when they raced up 17-0.

France are unlikely to be as helpful as England, but starting with the same accuracy and intensity is crucial if they are to take their title challenge to the final weekend.