The Scots have lost their opening two matches, despite having largely outplayed their opponents, yet the supporters have stuck with them to the extent that Sunday's will be the first capacity crowd for this fixture in 18 years. That reflects a mood of optimism within the sport, generated by the performance of the professional teams and the way that they are now being backed by their Scottish Rugby Union owners. The latest evidence of that was provided yesterday when Lee Jones signed a contract extension with Edinburgh, while Glasgow Warriors lured Tim Swinson from England's Aviva Premiership club Newcastle Falcons.
Ross Ford hopes the Murrayfield atmosphere can help Scotland
