Rugby: Allan predicts fired up Scots will run jittery Boks close

That's the view of a player who represented both teams in the lead up to the pro era . . . Glasgow-born John Allan gained nine Scottish caps at hooker, including the 1991 world cup semi-final, then returned to South Africa (where he was brought up) to gain 13 caps for the Springboks under eligibility laws now amended.

This original "Jock-bok" says: "South Africa has some key (medical] people who are well respected and who would quite readily put the boot into any sportsman who takes drugs.

"But they believe it is a mistake. They say it (methylhexaneamine] doesn't enhance your ability; the general feeling is it is a mistake and the product should be taken off the banned list. A huge issue is probably being made of something small. However, it will affect the Springbok team. Two of their players have had to go home because of perceived drug issues.

"Secondly, because they believe it is nutrition, anyone of them could have been done and facing a ban from their careers.

"From a player's perspective it could have a nagging effect. They are now too scared to take any product. Mentally they will think Scotland are able to take products and we can't and will it affect our performance.

"I'm from the old school who believes in a beer before a game and not of the new school who believe in nutritional products beforehand."

The drugs furore is not the only reason why Allan, below, is predicting a close outcome - "there will be a four point margin at full time and I don't care who for because this is a fixture where I can't be on the losing side!" - and a backlash from Scotland to last week's 49-3 hiding by New Zealand can be expected. "I know from my own playing experience what happens when Scottish pride is dented.It was embarrassing to watch Scotland's performance against New Zealand but the coaches and players will turn it around.

"Scotland will be fired up; with that and what has gone on in the Bokke camp I'd rather they were playing England this week instead of next. It has been a difficult week for a side who have plenty of talent but have to prove they can gel."

Allan, 46, remains heavily in South African rugby as a club coach and prime mover behind their Legends team. He added: "I regularly exchange views with the Springbok coaches over selection and I can't believe that Keegan Daniel has not been picked in the forwards. It is a disgrace, but a chance for Willem Alberts.

"Francois Hougaard can play any position from scrum half to full back. He'll be someone to watch and Pat Lambie has been a revelation.

"Lwazi Mvovo should have walked in at the beginning (he has replaced the injured Bryan Habana]. He is a big strong wing a bit like (Jonah] Lomu except that instead of trying to run through people he looks for work."

Scotland have been warned.