Lawson aims to take chance

Hooker Scott Lawson admits he was surprised by his inclusion in the Scotland team to take on Wales in the Six Nations this Sunday.

The 24-year-old is the only change made by Frank Hadden for the trip to the Millennium Stadium after his side shocked France 20-16 during their Six Nations opener.

Edinburgh's Dougie Hall has paid the price for some wayward lineout throwing during that match, and has been dropped completely from Scotland's 22.

Hadden believes he must develop his squad's strength-in-depth if they are to build a side capable of competing at the 2007 World Cup.

And Lawson, who will earn his sixth cap against Wales, is determined to take his unexpected opportunity.

"I thought it would be very hard to change a winning team," admitted Lawson.

"I certainly wasn't expecting it. Since I have been involved though, I have learned to expect anything.

"Frank has always said the squad is there for competition for places, which can only be good.

"It bodes well for the whole tournament that we have those selection `problems', especially in the hooker position."

During Scotland's miserable recent Six Nations campaigns, a rare bright spot was often provided by their well respected lineout.

And Lawson is keen they restore that reputation in Cardiff, when Scotland will need a reliable source of possession if they are to complete the second leg of a potential Grand Slam.

"Our line-out didn't function as well as it could have done at the weekend," added Lawson.

"There were a few mistakes on Sunday and, hopefully, we will fix it this week.

"It is hard because there is a lot of movement and our driving maul from the lineout was really good against France.

"The best way to achieve that is a full-man lineout but, obviously, by doing that, it gives the opposition more chances to compete."