SAM Hidalgo-Clyne admits new Edinburgh coach Richard Cockerill had to tell his players a few home truths after taking up his post.
But after opening their Guinness PRO14 campaign with two straight wins, he believes the Englishman’s blunt approach will ensure his side do not slip back into the bad old habits that have hampered their efforts in seasons gone by.
“Richard has really set the standard since he came in and is driving them up,” the Scotland scrum-half said. “That’s something the club really needed.
“He told a few home truths and I think that’s why he’s the coach he is. He’s black and white and will tell you straight. There’s never any beating about the bush with him.
“When we sat down as players and coaches to discuss it all and to set standards, anyone who didn’t agree with it was free to leave. But as players we all wanted it to be like this so we will continue being hard on each other.
“It’s not a case of blaming each other, it’s about trying to make sure we’re all better.”
Edinburgh will look to continue their encouraging start to the season when they host Italian outfit Benetton Treviso tonight. Cockerill has made six changes to the starting XV that beat Dragons last weekend.
Hidalgo-Clyne drops to the bench, with Nathan Fowles moving into the half-back berth.
At hooker, Ross Ford replaces the injured Stuart McInally, while Simon Berghan rotates in for Scotland prop WP Nel.
Anton Bresler is the only change to the second-row as he replaces Grant Gilchrist, while in the back-row John Hardie and Cornell du Preez come in for Hamish Watson and Jamie Ritchie.
Cockerill said: “We know that Benetton are going to be a tough side to break down. We need to make sure that we are accurate and physical.”
l Hidalgo-Clyne was at the launch of Mitsubishi Motors new Kit 4 Clubs scheme, offering rugby clubs and schools access to kit and equipment. Visit: www.mitsubishi-cars.co.uk/rugby/scotland
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