Paterson shines with try and grit in dominant Scotland win

• 8 Jul 2024
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Harry Paterson built on his impressive Six Nations debut for Scotland with a try-scoring performance in the opening leg of the Skyscanner Americas tour.

The Edinburgh Rugby winger scored his first professional try and played a key role in Scotland’s convincing 73-12 victory over Canada in Ottawa.

Paterson admitted to a touch of frustration after being forced off the pitch with a facial injury, but his focus quickly shifted to the team’s emphatic performance. “It was excellent,” he said. “The boys did really well, really proud of the effort.”

His biggest personal moment came in the form of a try, his first in professional rugby.

Paterson – who had featured in a playmaker role, setting up two scores – got on the scoresheet after finishing a slick backline move which saw Jamie Dobie turn provider in the wide channel.

“Pretty chuffed with that,” he beamed, before acknowledging a missed opportunity. “I should have given it to [Matt Currie] on the inside apparently on his first cap. I’ll need to make that up to him!”

The youngster has enjoyed a meteoric rise to prominence, having only recently broken into the Edinburgh squad. “Yeah I just haven’t played a lot,” he admitted, “so it’s good to get another appearance in the Scotland jersey.”

This second Scotland cap came with a lot more preparation than his debut against France in this year’s Six Nations, where Paterson was told only hours before kick-off that he would be making his international debut.

“I got a lot more notice so it’s a bit more preparation I suppose!” he said.

The win held particular significance for Paterson, reflecting a key area of growth for Scotland.

“We were kind of talking about growth from the Six Nations, being able to just press on for the whole 80 was something we were really chuffed with.”

As for his try, the mixed emotions were evident. “Scoring that first try is big, I’m a bit annoyed about not giving it to Matt… but you know, chuffed with it!”