#StarPerformers - France v Scotland

Camille Lopez

Finally the French backroom seem to have decided on their best out-half and the Clermont man really has nailed down his position as one of the first names on the team sheet. He has taken on the kicking duties for his country like a duck to water, scoring 6 from 7 today. It was his success from the tee that clinched this one for the home side today. Again and again he stepped up to slot the ball between the posts from positions on the field from which it looked nearly impossible. He also kicked very well out of hand and wasn’t afraid to carry when he needed to, almost getting over the try-line on a couple of occasions from close-range.

Stuart Hogg

The Melrose flyer was again the standout player for his Scottish side today. He managed to get over for a try to mark the momentous occasion of his 50^th cap and to extend his try scoring run for Scotland to four games in a row. His try was expertly taken as he bamboozled the oncoming defenders with his fancy footwork before diving over in the corner. The fullback also defended superbly preventing a certain try by making two tackles in a matter of seconds when Kevin Gourdon broke into the Scottish 22. Hogg was a threat every time he touched the ball and must be almost guaranteed a place in Warren Gatland’s squad on the Lions tour at this stage.

Uini Atonio

The New Zealand born tighthead was extremely important to his side today. The French managed to get over the line today largely down to their dominance in the scrum and the La Rochelle powerhouse. Almost half of the 13 penalties the Scots conceded came from their pack being driven backwards by the gargantuan prop. Atonio often gets criticised for being unfit and not effective around the field. That wasn’t the case today as he looked keen to carry when called upon and tackled well when challenged to do so.