A dejected Jack Dempsey summed up Scotland's mood
When Scotland splished and splashed through the phases at the end of a dour but compelling battle in Rome, their moment of truth had arrived - the time to deliver on their spoken words about ruthlessness was upon them.
They worked it downfield, through the puddles, through and around the demonic Italian players, over halfway and into the enemy 22.
This was it? A romp in the swamp or failure in the foulness of a Rome afternoon?
After 29 phases the answer came. Max Williamson held up, Italy ball, game over. Italy off to a flyer, Scotland left talking about disappointment. Again.
