Andrea Marcato's last-minute drop goal handed Scotland their fourth defeat in this year's RBS 6 Nations - but Frank Hadden's men avoided a second successive wooden spoon by the skin of their teeth.
It was a popular pre-tournament tip to be this season's RBS 6 Nations title decider - but England and Ireland are playing only for pride at Twickenham on Saturday.
Full-back Rory Lamont has been ruled out of Scotland's final RBS 6 Nations clash against Italy after breaking a bone in his face in the victory over England.
Cardiff Blues director of rugby Dai Young and Leinster coach Alan Gaffney have welcomed the introduction of the end-of-season play-offs in the Magners League.
Michael Bradley has made 11 changes as well as four positional switches to his Connacht side ahead of their final pre-season friendly against Queensland Reds at the Sportsground this evening.
Glasgow Warriors assistant coach Shade Munro believes pre-season friendlies are the perfect way for the squad to get to grips with the game's new laws.
Glasgow head coach Sean Lineen praised the performance of his young players despite the defeat to Bristol in the Warriors' only pre-season game at Firhill.
Cardiff Blues director of rugby Dai Young and Leinster coach Alan Gaffney have welcomed the introduction of the end-of-season play-offs in the Magners League.