Interview: Dalziel targets home impact after Player of the Match debut

The stand-off made an immediate impact on debut, delivering a performance full of invention as Scotland opened their campaign with a statement win. But just days on, Dalziel says the focus within the squad has quickly shifted from celebration to preparation.

“Coming in on Sunday, the vibe and the buzz in the group was up another level,” he said. “In training you can see it rubbing off on everyone. Even the guys that didn’t play are really buzzing to fight for that jersey and get out there on Friday night.”

Despite the noise generated by travelling supporters in Italy, Dalziel is particularly excited about the prospect of running out in front of a home crowd for the first time at U20 level.

“I’ve not played at home for the 20s yet, so it’s going to be good,” he said. “Hopefully we get some good numbers down — guys that are going to be loud and cheer us on.”

Scotland now turn their attention to England, whom they face this Friday 13 February at Hive Stadium in Edinburgh, in what promises to be a step up in intensity.

“I’d say England will be on another level up this week and obviously coming off a win themselves, it’s going to be another challenge,” Dalziel added.

With confidence building off the back of that win in Treviso, Scotland will be aiming to carry the energy of their opening performance into another big test on home soil. Tickets for Friday night’s match are still available, with supporters encouraged to come along and get behind the team.

Watch the full interview with Jake Dalziel.