Two tries from left wing Elen Evans gave the Welsh side a major morale lift just two weeks before they have to open their championship account against the Irish in Dublin. Last year Wales kicked-off their campaign by beating the world champions, England, and now they are targeting a similar start at Donnybrook.
Evans raced over for the first try after 18 minutes to open the scoring before Ireland capitalised on an injury to Wales scrum half Amy Day, who pulled up with a foot injury and lost ball in her own 22, to pave the way for an Irish try from Skewen’s Larissa Muldoon. Day was then helped off on a stretcher.
Wales were back in front by the break thanks to a try from the centre Adi Taviner, who was sent over from a short pass after a number of phases. That made it 10-5 at the interval on the all-weather surface.
The Welsh defence was given a massive test at the start of the second half, but it came through, held firm and laid the foundation for a period of possession that led to a second well-worked try for Evans to extend the lead to 15-5.
Both sides had spells of playing one player short. Ireland lost Ciara Cooney just before the break and the Welsh skipper, Taylor, also picked up a yellow card in the second half.
“We’re really pleased with the exercise, it’s certainly a confidence boost ahead of the Six Nations, especially as Ireland are current champions,” said Wales head coach Rhys Edwards.
“The main objective was to provide an opportunity to play and put things into practice. We showed a clear intent to attack and although we missed a few opportunities to score, especially at the end, our defence was also up to the mark in keeping Ireland in their own 22.
“Ireland will be a different challenge on their own soil. We came unstuck last year after beating England but we have learned our lessons from that.”
