from the perspective of the scots, the instability in the isles was almost certainly a cause for concern. conflict amongst the islesmen could have led to hostilities overflowing into the scottish realm, and feuding in the isles could have been exploited by elements opposed to the scottish crown. as a result, it is possible that scots decided to support one half-brother against another, in the expectation that the victor would destroy the power of his rival, thus restoring stability in the region. of the two, ragnall appears to have been the most palatable to the scots, and may have been a key player in scottish plans to counter the threat of the meic uilleim, and their probable ulster supporters, the uí néill.