Scotland beat Samoa 41-12 in seven-try rout

Samoa 12-41 Scotland, Eden Park

Scotland delivered a commanding performance against Samoa at Eden Park on Friday, securing a comprehensive 41-12 win in their July international clash.

The Scots crossed the try line seven times, showcasing fluid attack and strong forward play in both halves. Despite missing several British & Irish Lions players, Scotland’s depth and tempo overwhelmed a struggling Samoan side that could not match the visitors’ intensity.

The match opened with hooker Ewan Ashman crashing over from a driving maul in the 7th minute to put Scotland ahead. Although the conversion was missed, the early momentum belonged to the visitors.

Just six minutes later, Rory Hutchinson capitalised on a smart chip from Stafford McDowall to extend Scotland's lead to 10-0.

Arron Reed added the third try of the half in the 31st minute with a clean finish on the left wing after Dobie’s wide pass. Captain Kyle Steyn closed out a dominant first half with a try in the 36th minute following more creative play by Dobie as Scotland completed the opening half with a 22-0 lead.

Scotland resumed their dominance after halftime with Grant Gilchrist muscling over in the 50th minute, with George Horne converting to push the score to 27-0.

However, Samoa responded almost immediately, as Benjamin Petaia Nee-Nee intercepted a loose pass to race away for their first try. The conversion was missed, keeping the score at 27-5.

Scotland didn’t allow that brief momentum shift to last, with Kyle Rowe scoring five minutes later to make it 32-5. Although the conversion was off target, the Scots continued to dominate.

Samoa managed their second try in the 64th minute when Duncan Paia’aua forced his way over from close range. The conversion was spot on by Jacob Umaga, leaving the deficit at 32-12. Scotland had the final say, with George Turner diving over in the 77th minute to cap the scoring. Horne converted to seal a 41-12 victory.

Team line up:

Samoa: Ah Kiong, Tuitama, Paia'aua, Taefu, Alosio; Umaga, Matavao; Seiuli, Sue, Alaalatoa, Nee-Nee, Slade, McFarland (capt), Mau'u, Seu.

Reserves: Tolai, Siteine-Tua, Fepuleai, Curry, Jones, Mapu, Tupa'i, Iona.

Scotland: Rowe, Steyn, Hutchinson, McDowall, Reed; Burke, Dobie; Sutherland, Ashman, Millar Mills, Brown, Gilchrist, Onyeama-Christie, Darge (capt), M Fagerson.

Reserves: Turner, McBeth, Richardson, Henderson, Sykes, Muncaster, Horne, Hastings.