Tearful Cotter bids emotional farewell to Scotland

Outgoing Scotland head coach Vern Cotter struggled to hold back the tears as he bid an emotional farewell to players and fans at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Cotter is leaving the role to take over at Montpellier later this year and signed off his three-year reign with a 29-0 Six Nations victory over Italy.

And the New Zealander – often a man of few words – was true to form after bringing the curtain down on his time in Scotland.

“I’d like to thank the players and everybody for the last three years. It’s been fantastic, great fun, I’ve really enjoyed it,” was all he could muster when interviewed by the BBC on-field after the match.

Asked what Cotter’s impact had been on Scottish rugby, captain John Barclay – interrupted by a huge ovation for his head coach – said: “It’s hard to put into words really. He’s a good man… listen to the crowd!

“He’s made a fantastic contribution to Scottish rugby, he’s brought a fantastic culture to the team.

“He won’t take any credit now but he’s a great man.”

Glasgow Warriors head coach Gregor Townsend will succeed Cotter.

FULL-TIME | Scotland 29 – 0 Italy #AsOne #OurDay pic.twitter.com/VE5GFh8vRp

— Scottish Rugby (@Scotlandteam) March 18, 2017