Scotland thwarted by first-half injuries - Cotter

Vern Cotter said first-half injuries to Stuart Hogg and Mark Bennett proved costly as Scotland succumbed to a 61-21 defeat against England.

Full-back Hogg was forced off with a head injury after 18 minutes and his replacement Mark Bennett appeared to twist his knee and was unable to continue.

Scotland had to reshuffle their backline and lacked coherency, Jonathan Joseph completing a first-half hat-trick as England cruised to a world-record-equalling 18th straight Test win to wrap up back-to-back Six Nations titles.

"We're disappointed with the result and obviously we would like to have put on a better performance than that," Cotter told ITV.

A disappointing afternoon for Scotland who go down to the @SixNationsRugby Champions @EnglandRugby at Twickenham #ENGVSCO #AsOne pic.twitter.com/XIitM3uoW5

— Scottish Rugby (@Scotlandteam) March 11, 2017

"We got injuries early and we came unstuck and couldn't get a grip on the game.

"We didn't defend well off the set-piece. They scored some good tries and made ground then you find yourself chasing the game. Your strategic options are limited.

"We're frustrated but I'm really looking more at the problem of next week's game. It's disappointing, but we'll take it on the chin.

"I'm more focused on trying to get a team together next week, this one's done and dusted."

Scotland wrap up their campaign at home to wooden spoon holders Italy next Saturday.