Jason Strange’s young Welsh side cruised past Scotland in the opening round of the U20 Six Nations. Centre Corey Baldwin bagging a couple of tries that sets up a mouthwatering tie against England next week.
Head coach Strange handed 15 new caps to the young talent that performed well in the U18 tour to South Africa in August.
Scotland failed to handle any of the attacking intent that Wales provided. A meager three points resulted in a disappointed Championship opener for the Scots.
Corey Baldwin double helps Wales U20 to win
Baldwin latched on to a deft chip from Ben Jones and raced under the posts from 40 metres.
His second was the result of some great team play leaving the centre to crash over from short range. Two contrasting tries for the young man, but showing his hunger to work hard for his team.
Not many would have expected the result, given the youthful and inexperience Strange had chosen prior to Friday night’s contest.
Wales side urged to express themselves
Despite the experience of fly-half Jones and prop Rhys Carre, it was the inexperience of 17-year old Harri Morgan, Cai Evans and Tommy Reffell that showed the potential the wales have to offer in the competition.
Jack Pope proved to be a thorn in Scotland’s lineout, stealing ball that gave Wales a solid platform to attack. Morgan’s debut try resulting in Pope’s first of many steals.
Ahead of Friday’s game in Colwyn Bay, Strange urged his players to express themselves and show the rest of the competition that Wales are a side with genuine expectations of finishing high up the pecking order in the latter stages.
Wales did just that and further tries from Ryan Conbeer and Dan Davis finished a thrilling evening for the men in red.
CAPTAIN’S VIEW Tommy Reffell talks us through tonight’s #WalesU20 win against Scotland at home in North Wales. pic.twitter.com/Pk874pkkEG
— Welsh Rugby Union (@WelshRugbyUnion) February 2, 2018
England to offer different test
With strong performances for both Wales and France in the opening round, England could have a fight on their hands if they are to hold on to their Six Nations title.
Strange will be quietly confident going into the clash against England in round two. If Wales can replicate their display against Scotland, a shock win could well be on the cards.
England will want to use their Italy performance as a platform to improve and having home advantage in round two may just play into their hands.
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