Vern Cotter praises "brave" Scotland effort against Australia

Scotland head coach Vern Cotter has suggested that his team played with "good heart and character" in their 35-34 defeat to Australia at the Rugby World Cup.

The Scots looked to be heading for the last four of the competition when Mark Bennett intercepted a pass from replacement Wallaby prop James Slipper, to score under the posts at Twickenham.

However, despite a controversial last-minute penalty from Bernard Foley giving the Australians victory, Cotter was quick to praise the effort and performance of his team.

He is quoted by BBC Sport as saying: "It was a brave effort from our players. The guys played well with good heart and character. They put on a good performances.

"They didn't let go. They kept believing. They'll take that with them."

Australia now go on to face Argentina in the semi-finals next weekend.