Allan Lewis’ side were 21-7 to the good at half time with two well worked tries through Blues, Coleg y Cymoedd and St Joseph’s wing Elis Wyn Benham and 11 points from the boot of Wales Under 20 and Ospreys outside half Luke Price.
Wales went 7-0 up after a scrum on the left side of the pitch provided a good attacking platform and an inside pass sent Wyn Benham over under the posts.
England came back with a try for Bath Academy and Bryanston School outside centre Max Clark, converted by centre partner Harry Mallinder from Rugby School and Northampton Saints.
However, Price put space between the two sides with two penalties and a drop goal before Wyn Benham benefitted from an overlap just before half time, Morgan Williams sending him over in the corner.
Wales had benefitted from a strong wind in the first half and England lifted the tempo after the break, scoring two further tries, including one for Mallinder who converted both before adding the crucial, last minute penalty from the half way line to win the game for England.
Wales Under 18 team manager Kevin George said, “We feel we have improved as a side since earlier in the season and we are pleased with the effort the boys put in, although it was disappointing to lose in that manner.
“Although we were very dominant in the first half, England displayed more power and guile in the second half and probably deserved the win in the end.
“It is fantastic to have the squad together in order to prepare well for our next game and we are thoroughly looking forward to taking on our hosts South Africa at Outeniqua Park, George on Tuesday.”
Wales also take on France on Saturday 23 August, and all three games will be broadcast in full, as live by S4C, details as follows:
Wales v England – Saturday 16 August 10pm
Wales v South Africa – Wednesday 20 August 10pm
Wales v France – Sunday 24 August 10pm
Wales scorers:
Tries:
Elis Wyn Benham (2)
Con: Luke Price
Pens: Price (2)
Drop Goal: Price
