Scotland's white line fever

Three tries in three Six Nations matches suggests that Scotland’s capabilities near the try line have not been up where they should be, but what are the underlying factors?

Many say that it is down to the players’ own attacking shortcomings, but should coach Andy Robinson also shoulder some of the responsibility, as well as his attack coach - and veteran of 80 caps - Gregor Townsend?

The continued selection of Dan Parks at number 10 has frustrated many, who believe he lacks the creative spark needed to carve open a try-scoring opportunity.

And, though that lack of creativity isn’t replicated elsewhere on the park, some reckon that the players on board who are capable of scoring points are not being used correctly.

Prolific Glasgow Warriors try-scorer Sean Lamont, for example, has been utilised during the Six Nations as a crash centre, which many believe blunts his impact on the international stage.

Another less tangible factor is confidence, and it doesn’t appear that Scotland have much of it at the moment. Those looking at the 2012 Six Nations betting should remember this.

And if you were to take away even the most gifted of attacking teams’ confidence - the All Blacks in their pomp - they’d struggle to get over that whitewash.

But, while it is more difficult to quantify, confidence surely comes from the top, and perhaps it is Robinson and the rest of his staff whose methods must again come into question.

Of course there are many who place the blame squarely on the shoulders of the players, but isn't it is the job of the coaching staff to fill their men with confidence, and send their play-makers out on the field with attacking blueprints stuffed up both shirt sleeves.

More pertinently, should all of this be enough to force the SRU to reshuffle their coaching hierarchy? Well, that’s another debate entirely, and probably one best saved until after the Six Nations dust has settled in just under two weeks time.

The Scots have trips to face Ireland and Italy still ahead, so there is time yet for them to prove the doubters wrong.

The Irish and the Italians have both leaked plenty of points already this this year, so it’s the perfect opportunity.