Scotland manager Gregor Townsend said he was unable to get green friction in a 35-16 defeat to France in Paris on Saturday.
Winner handed France the Six Nations title, but Scotland offered a tough test Blues With French studs.
However, as Scotland finished fourth in the rankings, the hosts proved to be too smooth at key moments.
“We asked players to provide effort and physical performances. They did that,” Townsend told ITV.
“Our forwards played good rugby at times, but they really went up front.
“We couldn’t get any bad luck before the break, halftime (there are unbanned attempts), and there was no mistake. They scored right after halftime.
“We were cheeks away from converting into the first half when Blair Kinghorn was just in touch and they were a very good defense. You had to be patient and accurate, and that was a bit lacking today.”
French hooker Pete Maubaka was sent to Sinbin for frontal contact with Scottish Scrum Half Ben White during a brawl, but Townsend was not pulled out if he thought he should be upgraded to a red card.
“As we know, these things can be decisive. I’m proud to front up the team tonight and then try France again at the end, but deny the mall’s attempt. They were very aggressive.”
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