WALES WOMEN PUT SPAIN TO THE SWORD

The score-line will have frustrated the Welsh who dominated for long periods in a lively encounter.  Wales again showed that they are more than capable of competing at the highest level, throwing further doubt over the decision to leave them out of the Women’s World Cup later this year. 

Wales dominated the first half but failed to capitalise on the score board, spurning several chances with basic handling errors.  Non Evans gave the Welsh a deserved lead with a penalty as the early exchanges saw Wales control play against a physical Spanish side.  Naomi Thomas controlled play well, with a clever mix of kicking and passing game, and was rewarded with a superb individual try after 24 minutes, which Evans duly converted.

Spain were reliant on a well organised forward effort but rarely troubled Wales until late in the first half when Mariona Vila intercepted a pass to race 60 metres before being hauled down short of the line.  Wales went into the break leading 10-0 and but for a lack of composure could have been further ahead.  

Despite struggling in the first period Spain played some lively rugby in the second half and were unlucky not to score after a rampaging 30 metre maul.  Wales showed new spirit and commitment in defending for long periods of a scoreless second half.  The highlight came in the 33 minute when Phillipa Tuttiet came onto to win her first senior cap. 

Wales will head into next weeks fixture with France hopeful of causing an upset against the tournament favourites. 

Wales Team

Non Evans;  Elen Evans;  Rhian Williams (Louise Rickard, 56);  Clare Flowers;  Rachel Poolman (Philippa Tuttiet, 74);  Naomi Thomas;  Amy Day (Catrina Nicholas, 63);  Louise Horgan;  Jenny Davies;  Claire Horgan;  Rachel Brown (Claire Donovan, 63);  Kylie Wilson;  Jamie Kift;  Mel Berry;  Dawn Mason (Liza Burgess, 56) Amy Broadstock;  Rhian Bowden

Match report by Marcus Leach