Scotland stand-off Dan Parks insists Scotland made progress during the RBS 6 Nations championship, despite the team picking up the dreaded wooden spoon.
Frank Hadden’s side claimed just one victory when Chris Paterson kicked all their points in a 21-9 win over Wales.
“It’s obviously frustrating when you look at the stats because they don’t really paint an accurate picture,” Parks said.
“We played England when they were red hot and Harry Ellis was just on fire. Against Italy the first six minutes cost us dearly and the Ireland game could have gone either way.
“Then, against France, they were going for the Six Nations and they played really well, but we still managed to score three good tries against them.
“So, at the end of the day, I don’t think it was as a bad as many people are saying.
“Because we got three wins last year and only one win this year a lot of people might think that team was a lot better than this one – but everyone is building towards the World Cup, and I think we’re looking good for that.
“I honestly believe that the team has improved.
“When I first came in everyone was really new and it was a really inexperienced team, but I’m up to 30 caps now and so are a lot of the other guys so hopefully we can start getting that experience reflected in results on the pitch.”
Scotland have only two games to play before the World Cup gets under way in September – against Ireland and South Africa during August – and Parks knows he is going to have to fight for his place.
Earlier this week Hadden dropped some heavy hints that he was considering moving the talented Chris Paterson into the vital stand-off position.
Parks added: “I felt I did okay with the chances I had during the 6 Nations, but Chris was always going to be there as an option at 10, so I am going to have to put in some good performances for Glasgow during the remainder of the season.
“Hopefully that will be enough for me to retain my place in the side.
“It is not a major concern for me because there are plenty of good stand-offs out there anyway, so I’m used to the competition and it keeps you on your toes.”