The USA's historic 30-29 victory over Scotland on Saturday at BBVA Compass Stadium was won on the backs of a sterling and brave defensive effort.

While Scotland scored more tries than the USA in this contest, from the second period to the 80th, the Eagles scored 30 points to Scotland's 17. Only that first-minute try and last-minute try made it so close. 

"The game was odd in that most of it was played in the 22s," said USA defensive coach Scott Lawrence. "Usually the game is played mostly between the 22-meter lines."

What that meant was that both teams found themselves under a great deal of pressure. And that's where, dealing with the pressure, the coaching staff asked their players to 'go to a dark place.' Get mean. Smash people. Hold the line.

"It's no accident that we played great defense tonight," said USA captain Blaine Scully. "It's what we've been working on, [and] we have people who can make hits."

Hooker Joe Taufete'e, talking about both offense and defense, said that he went to that dark place five times. It was something of a mental breakthrough. 

"As elite players it's what we strive to do," said the hooker, who scored two tries.

"We just committed to not letting anyone through," added center Bryce Campbell.

In the end, it was just a case of doing what the coaches preached. Yes, they let in some tries, but against a very talented Scotland team. And the Eagles held on. 

Paul Lasike, Shaun Davies and Ben Landry made crucial plays, and, as Lawrence put it: "Everyone showed up physically." 

Or, more simply, they found that darkness.