Kinghorn smashes Italians

BLAIR KINGHORN scored a hattrick of tries as Scotland signed off their Six Nations campaign with a thrilling bonus-point win over Italy at Murrayfield.

Kinghorn, replacing Finn Russell at stand-off, seized his chance, but it was more heartbreak for the gallant Italians, who were trailing 1914 in the dying moments and seeking the try which would have levelled the scores. One handling error was all it took for Kinghorn to pounce, streaking clear to complete his treble under the posts.

‘Italy deserved more from this tournament,’ said Jamie Ritchie, Scotland’s relieved captain. ‘They’ve played a lot of good rugby and they put us under huge pressure.’

Duhan van Der Merwe scored the Scots’ first try after 13 minutes. Kinghorn got his first as Ben White took the ball forward and played him in. His second came just four minutes after the restart following another assist by White.

‘The last two weeks weren’t as good but we were pleased to sign off with a win,’ said Scotland coach Gregor Townsend, who will meet SRU chief executive Mark Dodson shortly to discuss his future amid signs he will remain in post after the World Cup.