Gregor Townsend bemoaned the ill-discipline of his players during the defeat to Italy as he insists it cost them the game.

It’s not the first time in this year’s Six Nations that discipline has cost Scotland and it almost did on the opening day against Wales.

Townsend insists they didn’t crumble under the pressure of the occasion though but was clearly frustrated with the result, particularly with around 15,000 Scotland fans travelling to the Italian capital to watch the game.

The Scotland head coach believes they let Italy into the game by giving away too many penalties at a time where they should have been controlling things.

Scotland travel to face Ireland next week and Townsend warned that things will need to improve massively or Andy Farrell’s side will really punish his team in Dublin.

READ MORE: 5 things we learned as Scotland lose in Italy to end Six Nations hopes

Speaking to STV, He said: "Italy played better in the second half and got more points than us so of course they deserved it.

"I thought we came out in the second half and got the contact area sorted and created a score.

"But it was disallowed and after that we were ill-disciplined. After that try we gave away about six penalties in a row which let them back in the game.”

And when asked if the occasion got to Scotland, Townsend continued: "No.

"We have played in great atmospheres in all the Six Nations games. The players started well and finished well. We lost our discipline and gave Italy opportunities - that is the most disappointing aspect.

"We need to improve next week. We have an even tougher game playing a top team and if we are inaccurate and ill-disciplined it'll cost us."