Scotland rally past Fiji after second-half bench impact

Scotland beat Fiji 33-17 at Murrayfield in round three of the Nations Championship, overturning a 17-7 half-time deficit to secure a bonus-point victory. Jamie Dobie scored twice, while Jonny Gray, Pierre Schoeman and Scott Cummings also crossed for Scotland.

Fiji had the stronger first half, with Tevita Ikanivere, Selestino Ravutaumada and Elia Canakaivata all scoring as Scotland struggled to turn possession and a yellow-card period into points. Scotland had made 14 changes from the side that faced South Africa the previous week, and the opening 40 minutes exposed a lack of rhythm.

The match shifted after Gregor Townsend turned to his bench. Schoeman, Cummings and Dobie all scored as replacements, while Sione Tuipulotu’s introduction also helped Scotland regain control against a Fiji side that faded after its early intensity.

Townsend’s post-match view, as reported by the source, was that Scotland could take positives from the summer campaign while still needing to be more clinical when pressure and possession are in their favour. For editors, the key discussion is whether this comeback reflects Scotland’s squad depth or masks concerns about slow starts and first-half execution.