Before the frantic ending, a loophole in rugby’s laws led to a tedious kicking exchange that frustrated spectators and TV viewers.

Known as the Dupont Law, after France scrum-half Antoine Dupont who first seized upon the flaw, players can stand in an offside position from a kick and will be played onside as soon as the opposition catcher carries the ball five metres or uses the ball.

But Finn Russell knew this and, with his team leading, simply watched his steps before punting the ball back to France.

“There needs to be a rule change. The fact that a team can just kick from deep and look for territory is so boring for fans to watch,” former Scotland international Johnnie Beattie said on BBC Sport’s Rugby Union Daily podcast.

“The game of rugby is meant to be hyperactive, physical and a game of chess which is incredible to watch. Instead you have a stand off.”

Scotland dominated for large portions of the game but Louis Bielle-Biarrey’s second-half solo try was the difference and saved Fabien Galthie’s side from a second consecutive defeat.

“France were abysmal and showed absolutely nothing until that try,” Beattie added.

“I would like to see them win with style. To win like that, yes it is always better to win even if it is horrible rugby, but it was horrible rugby.”

They will look to bounce back with a big win over Italy on 25 February at Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille.