The breakneck speed of a Six Nations doesn't allow space for self-flagellation. As much as Scotland could beat themselves up over Sunday's second-half performance against Ireland, there's just no time. Another week, another game. A big one.

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There's no title on the line for Scotland against Italy on Saturday, but this is no dead rubber. If they win it with a bonus point then they all but guarantee themselves third place in the table for only the second time in a decade.

Finishing as the best of the rest would surely settle any lingering doubts Scottish Rugby may have about renewing Gregor Townsend's contract as head coach beyond the World Cup, presuming he still wants it renewed.

A five-pointer against Italy would kick Scotland into the World Cup build-up in decent heart. They've played some thrilling rugby in victory and defeat in this championship.

The brilliance of Duhan van der Merwe's scores against England, the joy of Finn Russell's second-half performance against Wales, the excellence they showed when 19-0 down in Paris to outscore France 21-6 in the next hour.