Scotland came from behind to take a half time lead and eventually sneak the win as a late Ruaridh Jackson penalty kick helped the home side beat Samoa 19-16 in Aberdeen on Saturday. Its Scotlands fifth win in their last six Tests this year.
Samoa scored a lovely converted try through their ever impressive scrumhalf Khan Fotualii after a neat chip ahead from George Pisi. Nikki Walker then crossed for a rare Scottish try that came from a neatly worked set piece move.
Dan Parks kept the scoreboard ticking and at 16-13 up after a dropgoal and a few penalties, it took the boot of Paul Williams to keep Samoa in the game and get things level.
Replacement flyhalf Jackson came on for his second ever Test with twenty minutes left and kept his nerve to slot the deciding penalty with time up in front of his home ground.
“I’ve supported Aberdeen since I was a kiddie and loved going to Pittodrie to support them. In those days I imagined that one day I might get the chance to get out on to that pitch and score an important goal,” Jackson said.
“I was pretty nervous when I prepared to take the penalty. I just lined it up as usual – connected well, and thankfully it sailed between the posts.
“OK, it turned out it wasn’t for Aberdeen – but you can’t get better than claiming the winner for your country. I hope I have also brought back the winning feeling and a bit of sporting joy to the city and that the football lads can take some inspiration and start getting some good results again.
“After the final whistle sounded I ran across to my girlfriend Kirsty and her folks – then my mum and dad came down to the side of the pitch and she gave me a huge hug.
“It was all just magical,” he beamed.
Time:
06:21
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