Scotland began their autumn Test series with a comfortable if unspectacular victory over Romania, scoring five tries in the process.

The Scots never looked in any danger against the improved Romanians but the home side's attacks collapsed too often as the result of scrappy passing and handling.

Nevertheless, there were plenty of positives for Scotland coach Ian McGeechan ahead of the visit of South Africa.

Scotland had two incredible let-offs in the first minute as Ionut Tofan missed a drop-goal attempt, only for Scotland to be penalised for offside.

Tofan had a relatively simple chance in front of the posts from 30 metres, but the stand-off kicked it wide.

Scotland replied by opening the scoring in the fourth minute, lock Stuart Grimes being driven over the line in the ruck.

Brendan Laney successfully kicked the conversion from a tough angle.

Romania opened their account with a Tofan penalty after Scotland were penalised for failing to retreat quickly enough.

Laney restored the seven-point lead a few minutes later with a penalty under the posts.

He added to his and Scotland's total with another well-taken penalty after 24 minutes as the Scots continued to dominate possession.

Scotland had a let-off in 28 minutes after Bryan Redpath was robbed of possession, but the break of the ball deserted the Romanians just short of the line.

Romania were defending well, although they were also disrupting the Scottish play with a series of infringements, but the referee kept his yellow card in his pocket.

Chris Paterson put further daylight between the sides with an excellent try following good, quick passing between Redpath, Laney and Andy Craig with three minutes left in the half.