Key Takeaways:

• Finn Russell missed a conversion that could have clinched a record fifth straight Calcutta Cup win for Scotland.
• England's 16-15 victory keeps them in contention for the Six Nations title.
• Duhan van der Merwe scored a try for Scotland, but it wasn't enough to secure the win.
• England secured the win with crucial penalties from Marcus Smith and Fin Smith.

In a dramatic Six Nations match at Twickenham, England emerged victorious over Scotland with a narrow 16-15 win. The pivotal moment came in the 79th minute when Finn Russell missed a potentially game-winning conversion after Scotland's Duhan van der Merwe scored in the corner. Russell’s miss allowed England to claim the Calcutta Cup for the first time in five years, breaking a streak of defeats in this historic fixture.

Scotland initially took control of the match, leading 10-7 at halftime. Their tries by Ben White and Huw Jones highlighted their early dominance. However, crucial conversion misses by Russell ultimately cost Scotland as they could not capitalize on their scoring opportunities. England fought back in the second half, with Marcus Smith and Fin Smith contributing key penalties that put England ahead by six points with around ten minutes to go. "There is loads for us to get better at but we are delighted to win," said England captain Maro Itoje.

The match was not just about the players' performances; it also had ramifications for the Six Nations standings. After this match, England remains a contender for the title with 10 points, trailing Ireland, who beat Wales earlier in the day to earn a Triple Crown and extend their lead in the tournament. Ireland's victory over Wales further heightened the stakes for England, as they look to secure a title that has eluded them since 2020.

Scotland's coach Gregor Townsend acknowledged the missed opportunities that led to their defeat, emphasizing the need for improvement before their upcoming matches. "Fair play to England's defense, in the first half they kept us out," said Van der Merwe, reflecting on their performance. Despite the loss, Scotland showcased their attacking talent throughout the game but fell short in critical moments.

This clash was not only vital for the tournament standings but also showcased the intense rivalries and pressure surrounding international rugby. As England prepares to face Italy next, they aim to build on this narrow victory, while Scotland must regroup to salvage their campaign.

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