Scotland captain John Barclay admits his side wasted chances during their 28-8 defeat against Ireland in Dublin.
The visitors failed to capitalise on excellent opportunities as Jacob Stockdale inspired Ireland with two tries to put his side one win away from NatWest 6 Nations glory.
Stockdale had gone over thanks to a wonderful interception but Scotland could’ve come straight back into the contest had Huw Jones’ pass found Stuart Hogg in acres of space.
And Barlcay believes his side could’ve done better when going in search of an upset at the Aviva.
He said: “I think we created a lot of opportunities. I think there were three where we should’ve scored tries and could’ve made it a different game. I think they had maybe four or five opportunities to score tries.
“We created some great opportunities out there. One more pass and we could’ve been under the sticks a few times. It’s pleasing on one side but it’s frustrating on the other.”
Scotland did get over the line thanks to a superb try by Blair Kinghorn but dot downs from Conor Murray and Sean Cronin put the game beyond the Scots.
The visitors attempted to surge forward late on but were pegged back by the tenacity of the Joe Schmidt’s side.
Barclay added: “I don’t think we panicked by any means. The way we’ve played the game was fast but when you go up against someone like Ireland, they are good on the ball, they have a good maul and make it very tricky for you.”
