New Zealand flyhalf Andrew Mehrtens insists the All Blacks are reading nothing into Scotland's defeat at the hands of Argentina last Sunday.

Ian McGeechan's men slumped to a disappointing loss as the Felipe Contepomi-inspired Pumas adapted better to the atrocious conditions at Murrayfield.

But Mehrtens - the leading-points scorer in All Black history - believes that the Scots will produce a far better performance this Saturday. "We aren't putting too much emphasis on that result.

"Argentina had more to play for than Scotland and maybe Scotland had one eye on this week's game. It just looked like one of those days for the Scots. Argentina disrupted their plans and nothing came off for Scotland.

"Everything came off for Argentina and they've given a lot of top teams a fright - they've drawn with the All Blacks in Argentina.

"There will be no problem with our motivation for Saturday as we are expecting a very difficult encounter despite Scotland losing last week. The Scots will definitely lift themselves for this game and I'm sure the crowd will also be looking forward to it".

Mehrtens might be the oldest player in John Mitchell's squad at age 28, but he insists there is no lack of experience in the touring party.

"All the boys are well versed in Super 12 rugby, as well as the NPC competition, so although they are young they are not naïve. Super 12 and NPC games are of international standard so they are a great grounding."

One of the brightest of Mitchell's young stars, Aaron Mauger, is well known to Mehrtens. The 20-year-old earned his first cap in the win over Ireland as Mehrtens picked up his 53rd.

"I've known Aaron for many years and we have discussed things on this tour. We both played for the Old Boys of Canterbury club and he has got it all. He has his feet on the ground and has a willingness to learn. Still, physically, he has everything."

Mehrtens was named in an unchanged team from the one which beat Ireland for the Test with Scotland. Tana Umaga was selected at centre for the Murrayfield clash after training yesterday having missed sessions on Monday and Tuesday. - PA