Time’s up, Gregor’: Scotland supporters turn on Townsend demand change and name their replacement

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Gregor Townsend’s men looked to be coasting when Jack Dempsey crossed early and hooker Ewan Ashman bagged a brace, putting the hosts firmly in control with more than 50 minutes gone. But what should have been a routine home win instead descended into chaos.

A loose Finn Russell pass swung momentum sharply towards the visitors, and Blair Kinghorn’s yellow card only made matters worse. Argentina ruthlessly punished Scotland’s unraveling discipline, running in five tries in the final half-hour as the home side completely capitulated.

Townsend faced a fierce backlash online as frustrated supporters and pundits questioned how such an implosion could happen.

Sports writer Sam Jess didn’t hold back, posting: 

Planet Rugby scribe Jared Wright added further context to the growing concern: "Scotland were ranked 5th when Gregor Townsend took over in 2017. After today’s defeat, they now rank 9th. He has won Calcutta Cups but failed to progress past the pool stages in two World Cups. All with a ‘golden generation’ of players. Not sure how he got an extension."

Supporters were equally blunt. One wrote: ":ast two rugby games Scotland should have won that were lost. Gregor Townsend has taken his Scotland team as far as he can. He needs to be replaced."

Another questioned the wider setup: "The SRU deciding it’s fine for Gregor Townsend to see Scotland Head Coach as a part time job is genuinely an insult to everyone. If he isn’t 100% focused on Scotland, why would the players be and why should supporters bother spending so much money to watch."

And fans appear united on who they believe should take over next: Glasgow Warriors boss Franco Smith.

One supporter insisted: "Franco Smith builds teams that play at least 80 minutes. He wins tough games because of it. Gregor is into flower arranging"

Another echoed the sentiment: "Time for Townshend to go. Taken these players as far as he can. Send for Franco Smith."

Thursday 5 February
France v Ireland – 20:10

Saturday 7 February
Italy v Scotland – 14:10
England v Wales – 16:40

Saturday 14 February
Ireland v Italy – 14:10
Scotland v England – 16:40

Sunday 15 February
Wales v France – 15:10

Saturday 21 February
England v Ireland – 14:10
Wales v Scotland – 16:40

Sunday 22 February
France v Italy – 15:10

28 February – 1 March

Friday 6 March
Ireland v Wales – 20:10

Saturday 7 March
Scotland v France – 14:10
Italy v England – 16:40

Saturday 14 March
Ireland v Scotland – 14:10
Wales v Italy – 16:40
France v England – 20:10

12 years have passed since Warren Gatland’s men roared to a famous series win over Australia, but how well do you really remember the iconic 2013 British & Irish Lions squad?

From legendary leaders to surprise selections, we’ve lined up every player from that unforgettable tour. All you have to do is name them. No pressure, right?

Take the quiz below and prove your rugby brain still bites.

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