No discussion of Scotland in recent years could be complete without the words 'brave', 'valiant', 'courageous' and, as often as not, 'defeat'.

Scotland's World Cup was the swansong for many key personnel, with Bryan Redpath, Gregor Townsend, Glenn Metcalfe and Kenny Logan all hanging up their international boots.

Judging by some of the team's performances, though, perhaps this is no bad thing for Scotland's Six Nations chances.

Down Under, the Scots beat minnows Japan and USA, were thumped 51-9 by France, and squeaked past Fiji into the quarter-finals where Australia eased them out of the tournament.

Guts and spirit simply could not compensate for three-quarter-line displays littered with handling errors, indecision and confusion.

The only positive aspects of the tournament came from the emergence of a younger crop of players, with wingers Chris Paterson and Simon Danielli stepping up admirably.

Coach Ian McGeechan's reign ended in disappointment - whether new man Matt Williams can do any better will depend on whether he can play to the strengths of these young bloods.

The most important game for Scotland will be the opener against Wales in Cardiff.

Victory over England, France or Ireland is surely beyond them, so the Scots will have to overcome Wales and Italy to match last year's fourth-place finish.

Defeat in Cardiff could start a slide towards the Wooden Spoon, with the Italians plotting to spring another surprise when Scotland visit Rome on March 6.

A good opening game is vital.

Danielli and Paterson look like the main points providers, but will need good service for their efforts to produce results.

In addition, Paterson's kicking prowess should help the side capitalise on infringements.

It is up to Williams, though, to restore belief to his beleagured team, and drag Scottish rugby into the 21st Century, if they are to avoid an embarrassing whitewash.