In southern Spain, Wales secured impressive victories over the Netherlands, Ukraine and Portugal to finish ninth at the end of the two-leg series.
It was a good result for Wales who had been seeded 12th before the two-leg tournament had begun.
“The squad was strengthened by the return of Laurie Harries and Caryl James from injury, their speed and finishing ability proved crucial in the wins over Netherlands and Portugal,” said Edwards.
“The target was to try and break into the top eight with two wins in the group.”
In Marbella, Wales started with a 41-0 defeat to Russia in a game which was always going to be a tough ask. However, it was an improved Welsh performance from the one when the two sides met two weeks ago in Brive, France.
The second pool game saw Wales showcase their talents in a 21-17 win over the Netherlands, captain Elinor Snowsill scoring in the last minute to secure the victory. Given heart by the win over a side who are currently preparing for the Sevens World Cup and Olympics, Wales followed it up with a 12-0 win over Ukraine in a hugely physical, tough encounter.
Victories in either of their next two games would have taken Wales into the top half of the pool but both Italy and Spain proved too much in their respective encounters.
The pool stage results meant Wales finished fourth and set up a clash with England. In a close match, Wales trailed 12-7 at the break and although Carys Phillips crossed for a late score, she failed to prevent her side slipping to a 19-14 defeat.
“It was a tough start against Russia who were the eventual series winners but a first ever win against the Netherlands and a victory over Ukraine were a huge boost to the girls,” said Edwards.
“Against Italy, poor concentration and missed opportunities meant we lost 10 – 7.
“But on day two we put in an excellent effort against Spain and the plate semi-final against England was a great contest, with us scoring two of our best team tries.”
A seventh and eighth play-off final with Portugal followed and when Caryl James crossed for a late try, it secured a 17-14 win. It ensured a seventh place finish in Spain and a ninth place finish overall.
“We could have finished in the top six in Marbella if we were more consistent but it was agreat achievement to finish seventh overall,” Edwards added.
“Overall, the two-leg series was a success. We finished ninth which means we stay in the tournament for next year.”
“We used 15 players over the two legs which was a huge learning curve. But the players adapted quickly and showed with the right application and commitment that they can compete with some of the best teams in Europe.”
