Scotland vice-captain Helen Nelson says the team are “very motivated” to get back to winning ways this weekend in Australia.
Since they defeated Wales in the opening Women’s Six Nations game in Cardiff in April, the Scots have lost seven Tests in a row and slipped to number nine in the world rankings.
Their last three of those loses came in WXV Global Series action versus Canada, New Zealand and Australia at home last month.
Now they are down under playing in the same competition with a match against Australia on Saturday in Sydney (2am UK time, live on RugbyPass TV) followed up by one next Friday in Canberra against the same opponents.
And, ahead of game one at the Accor Stadium, stand-off Nelson, the 83-capp, 32-year-old who began her rugby journey at Jubilee Park in Ballachulish and Lochaber Rugby Club’s Banavie ground, said: “We’re all desperate for a win this weekend and I think that’s driving the behaviours on and off the pitch.
“I think come Saturday we won’t really need to say too much in terms of locking that in because as a team we’re very motivated and we want to go out there and perform.
“The biggest thing with us as a group is belief.
“When you’ve had a run of defeats, at times it feels like you’re doing everything right and it can be really frustrating when it isn’t clicking and you’re not getting that monkey off your back.
“I think us older, more experienced players in the squad are trying to instil a sense of belief in the group and keep people feeling confident.
“And when you do get that win after a tough run it’s incredible what that gives you, it gives a wee burst of energy.
“Despite recent losses, I think we’re definitely on the right track.
“And I think the loss against Australia at home a few weeks ago has just fuelled us to be even more motivated to go out there and get a win this weekend.”
Scotland’s away WXV Global Series fixtures take place against Australia on October 17 and October 23.
Helen Nelson is pictured in the last match versus Australia – thanks to Gareth Falls
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