Andy Robinson oversees Scotland's training ahead of their clash with France © PA Photos

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Tournaments/Tours: Six Nations B

Teams: France | Scotland

Scotland head coach Andy Robinson side-stepped criticism of his side's recent scarcity of tries prior to their Six Nations opener against France, but admitted they would have to seize their chances at the Stade de France on Saturday.

Robinson's side go into the game on the back of wins over Ireland, Argentina (twice), South Africa and Samoa. But having scored just three tries in those matches, doubts persist over their ability to break down defences with ball in hand and convert possession into points.

Scotland have two wins in Paris in 42 years and are without a victory in the French capital since winning the final Five Nations Championship in 1999. And Robinson is aware that his side will have to take any opportunities that come their way, whether by the boot or out wide, if they are to break that run.

"It's important we score more points than the opposition and however we do that I don't care," Robinson said. "Something that we need to improve on in our side is that ruthlessness that when we get chances to take them.

"Whether that's three points, six points or building through scoring tries, we've got to make sure we're doing well with the ball in hand."

After five wins in the last six Tests, Robinson is determined to oversee a performance which would earn Scotland a first win on the opening Six Nations weekend in five years - the last was their most recent win over France, at Murrayfield in 2006.

"We focus on what our performance is about; we can't control what's happened over the last 12 years," he said. "There's been a lot of talking taking place and what's key for us now is for us to get out and perform.

"What's important for us is to look at where we are and the step-by-step process we've got to take to win the game. The start is crucial to that, playing away from home. Also being able to have a good set-piece and being able to control the ball.

"On top of that you've got to have an outstanding defence and one with a real collective will, coupled with good self-control so we're not giving a lot of penalties away. I really rate the French goal-kickers and if we give too many penalties away we'll get the scoreboard ticking over for France."