Sean Maitland

Sean Maitland admits he nearly blew crucial World Cup opportunity for Scotland

The Saracens’ wing got the Dark Blues off and running with the opener against Samoa and had a major say as they claimed the vital extras in Kobe.

With three touchdowns in the bag, Gregor Townsend’s team needed just one more score for the additional point that would fire them right back into the race for the quarter finals.

But Maitland almost blew his big moment with six minutes remaining as he threw himself at the line from five yards out.

Saracens, Scotland without Maitland

The wing sustained an injury to his right ankle in Sarries' loss to Wasps earlier this month and had surgery this week. He is expected to be out of action for 12 weeks.

Maitland has scored eight tries during his first season with the club after his move from London Irish and will be unavailable for the Premiership semi-final at Exeter Chiefs this Saturday.

The 28-year-old will also miss the decider on May 27, should the holders, who have retained their European Champions Cup crown, reach the domestic showpiece at Twickenham.