Rugby: Stevie Scott calls for support

New interim coach Stevie Scott is inviting Edinburgh Rugby fans to share in what he hopes will be a personal centenary celebration when Ulster visit Murrayfield tonight.

As a Scotland hooker, Scott made 99 appearances for Edinburgh and there is a bit of symmetry about the fact his playing debut came against Ulster back in 1998.

“I hope Edinburgh people come out and support the team with three of the remaining five games at home,” said Scott. “The players are due a win for themselves but also for fans who have supported through a difficult period.”

It was the withdrawal of Scott during a friendly against ACT Brumbies at Meggetland also in the 1990s that allowed Allan Jacobsen to come off the bench for a debut at hooker.

Now 34, Jacobsen starts tonight at prop directly up against one of the players singled out by Scott earlier this week as a key opponent – All Black John Afoa. “Regardless of whether their [Irish] internationals are available, the likes of Afoa, Johann Muller, Jared Payne and Ruan Pienaar give Ulster a cornerstone,” said Scott.

With only Pienaar of that quartet out tonight and Irish caps Tom Court, Darren Cave, Paddy Jackson and Paul Marshall all included, the new regime at Edinburgh will know nothing has been laid on a plate if they gain an elusive first ­victory in 11 starts.