Wales cruise to Canadian victory as Halfpenny suffers blow

Wales cruised to a comfortable win over Canada in Cardiff, but it was a nightmare 100th cap for fullback Leigh Halfpenny, who left the field after just 60 seconds. Robert Rees you the latest from the Principality Stadium.

Wales cruise to victory 68-12

It took just 60 seconds into Halfpenny’s 100th cap for a nightmare return to play. A nasty looking injury saw the fullback carted off on a stretcher, replaced by Nick Tompkins.

The injury didn’t help Wales who then allowed Canada to capitalise on their possession, Kainoa Lloyd finishing off a nice move amongst the backs. Wales responding immediately through Tomos Williams’ quick tap penalty.

Wales’ next try typified Wayne Pivac’s style. A beautiful sweeping attack started in their own half by Nick Tompkins, assisted by Jon Davies’ hands, ending with James Botham crossing for his first international try.

Canada’s early pressure was truly faded by 20 minutes as Wales added a third through Jonah Holmes, Sheedy converting another from the tee.

Further tries from Nicky Smith, Elliot Dee and Will Rowlands compounded Canada’s misery before half time.

Half time, and no Welsh let up

It didn’t take long for Wales to breach the whitewash again, Callum Sheedy’s break allowing Tomos Williams to grab a brace.

After a quick look at the TMO, Taine Basham was rewarded with a try on his debut, placing the ball down in the corner after a surging carry over the whitewash. He quickly followed it up with another, fellow debutant Ben Thomas taking over the kicking duties following his replacing of Callum Sheedy.

Canada  finally enjoyed some possession in the Welsh 22 and made it pay following two TMO decisions that went against them. Another debutant scoring, Cooper Coats this time.

Jonah Holmes had the final say of the game as he crossed the whitewash with the clock in the red, setting up a perfect start to Wales’ summer series.

Canada’s spurt of possession disrupted the Welsh game superbly and the visitors left with a solid second-half performance under their belts.

Man of the Match; Ben Carter | Principality Stadium attendance; 6,164

 

 

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