Stuart McInally and the Edinburgh front row will have given Gregor Townsend a late boost in 2018 after a dominant performance against Glasgow Warriors.
The Edinburgh hooker scored his side’s only try in a 16-8 win at Scotstoun to help Edinburgh clinch the 1872 Cup with consecutive victories over their domestic rivals.
However it was also the work of Scotland tighthead WP Nel, as well as Pierre Schoeman, that made the difference for the visiting side.
In complete control up front, thanks to a powerful scrummaging display, Edinburgh were able to suffocate the life out of their hosts.
And Nel’s efforts were rewarded when opposite man Oli Kebble was sent to the sin-bin for one scrum infringement too many.
In his absence, McInally forced his way over from close range as Edinburgh clinched the win.
George Horne did cross for Glasgow Warriors, who still sit top of their conference in the Guinness PRO14.
But there will be a little concern at the fact both Stuart Hogg and Alex Dunbar were forced off with injuries in the second half of the clash.
