Byline: andy Nicol

THIS World Cup just gets better and better although sadly not for Scotland.

Almost all the other teams are playing fantastic rugby and scoring great tries.

But Scotland followed up two stuttering performances against Japan and America with a thoroughly poor display against a rampaging French side.

That leaves us needing a win against Fiji on Saturday. And there is no certainty we will get it given the way we are playing.

I don't think it's an exaggeration to say this game is the most important in the history of Scottish rugby.

It is far more important than the Grand Slam wins of 1925, 1984 and 1990.

They confirmed each of these sides were the best in Europe at the time. What this match in Sydney will determine is whetherScotland are in the top eight in the world and able to still rate ourselves as a major rugby nation.

If we lose and fail to qualify for the quarter-finals it would be a disaster that could have farreaching repercussions.

Revenue from sponsorship and TV rights could be affected.

Youngsters might be inclined to try other sports instead of rugby and the position will just get worse.

Scotland's woes aside, weshould revel in being part of a great event that is being brilliantly run by the Australians.

The crowds have been incredible and how about this for an idea?

When Namibia play Romania in Tasmania, all households with an even numbered address are to support Namibia. Everyone in an odd numbered house will support Romania.

More than 20,000 tickets havealready been sold amazing. The Aussies love their sport but they also love showing the world how good they are at hosting big sporting events.

They staged what is generally regarded as the best ever Olympics and I believe this will be the best ever Rugby World Cup.

Although last weekend saw some huge scores some of the so-called minnows have been punching above their weight. …