GREGOR TOWNSEND insisted Scotland have proved they are capable of being genuine Six Nations title contenders as he reflected on what might have been following a frustrating bottom-half finish.

The Scots showed plenty of promise during an inconsistent campaign but slipped to fourth place in the final standings after being denied a first Triple Crown in 34 years by Saturday’s 17-13 loss to champions Ireland.

Defeat in Dublin was a third from five championship fixtures following a controversial round-two reverse to France and last weekend’s shock loss away to Italy.