Scotland run in five tries as Wales’ losing run continues despite late fightback

Tom Jordan and Blair Kinghorn both scored doubles in Scotland’s five-try 35-29 victory over Wales at Murrayfield as the visitors went down to a 16th consecutive Test defeat and a 10th straight loss in the Six Nations.

With their own hopes of contending for the title already over after losing their previous two matches against Ireland and England, the Scots needed a strong response against a struggling Welsh side intent on backing up a heartening display against Ireland in Matt Sherratt’s first game in interim charge.

For the most part, Gregor Townsend’s side delivered as they ran in four tries before the break to lead by 20 points before opening up a 35-8 lead by the hour, leaving them on course to eclipse their record 28-point victory over the Welsh two years ago.

However, as the Scots suffered one of their trademark flaky periods in the final quarter, Wales – who scored in the first half through Blair Murray – made the scoreline far more respectable with tries from Ben Thomas, Teddy Williams and Max Llewellyn.

Talismanic Scotland co-captain Finn Russell had come under scrutiny after missing all three of his goal-kicks against England last time out, but this time his contribution from the tee proved crucial as he bounced back to nail all five of his conversions before being replaced just after the hour.

With Murrayfield bathed in glorious spring sunshine as the players took to the field, the visitors made a bright start, getting off the mark with less than three minutes on the clock through Gareth Anscombe’s penalty.

Scotland soon sparked into life, however, and they got themselves up and running with a superb multi-phase try in the fifth minute. Darcy Graham – back in the side after concussion – was instrumental,