Scotland 34 Romania 24: Scotland working on game plan to deny Georgia any foothold

They defeated Romania at Rugby Park Stadium in an unconvincing performance, with Simon Danielli’s late try double securing a bonus-point success.

After two early tries for Scotland, Romania’s pack caused chaos and they went in front with 12 minutes remaining.

While satisfied with the response which secured victory, Scotland are eager for an improved showing against Georgia, aware an upset is possible if their performance is below par once more.

Georgia almost provided a preliminary-round shock four years ago before Ireland edged to a 14-10 victory in Bordeaux.

Attack coach Gregor Townsend knows Scotland must step up and deliver in their second Pool B contest. Townsend said: “We planned for this first phase, these two games, for a long while.

“We’ll be looking at a type of game that we believe will put pressure on Georgia and will win us the game.

“We’re wanting the players to play as close to their potential (as possible).

“If we drop off one or two players then Georgia will get a foothold into the game.

“They proved against Ireland four years ago that if you give them a foothold they’re very dangerous and could easily win the match.”

Scotland know what to expect against a Georgia team who have won eight straight matches under Richie Dixon, the coach who led Scotland from 1995 until 1998, having assisted Jim Telfer during the World Cup in South Africa.

Scotland are expected to make numerous changes from the team which took on Romania.

Graeme Morrison was not considered for selection for the Romania contest after picking up a leg knock in training, but the Glasgow Warriors centre is available for Wednesday’s match and at present there are no fitness concerns.

Townsend added: “Everyone is fit for selection and raring to go and play better rugby against Georgia.”