In my mind that was the best performance that Scotland have produced since Matt Williams took over as coach.

Its a strange feeling though because if youd offered most Scotland supporters a seven-point defeat before the game theyd probably have taken it.

But its one thing to lose, and another thing to lose under controversial circumstances.

The video evidence on Allister Hoggs disallowed try was inconclusive, and in fairness the touch judge was in the best position to see, but the sin-binning of John Petrie was harsh.

Up until Petries sin-binning Scotlands discipline had been very, very good, and Petrie had had an excellent game himself. The back row in general was impressive, and Ali Hoggs positional play was terrific.

Chris Cusiter had another outstanding game for Scotland and his presence was like having a fourth back-row man on the pitch.

One of the dangers that Scotland have to guard against now is if they see the performance in Paris as the benchmark, because they have to go further than that and actually win games.

They cant afford to be complacent, although Im sure that wont be a problem.

The great thing is that Scotlands players will all have a real sense of what it is like to play at the level required to win games.

Tactically they played a very good game, turning the French and getting them onto the back foot, although I thought Dan Parks sometimes sat a little too deep in the pocket and opted for a drop goal in the first-half when he would have been better off going for the try.

Hugo Southwell played his first game of the season at inside centre, and in that hostile environment he played very, very well. I certainly wouldnt blame any one individual for Trailles try as there were a number of contributory factors.

Looking ahead to next week against Ireland, its up to Scotland to turn in a performance as good, if not better than the one they turned in against France.

Ireland may be missing Brian ODriscoll and Gordon DArcy, which could mean some cracks start to appear.

Scotlands performance against France will have inspired the Scottish public so there should a rousing support from the crowd at Murrayfield.