The Wallaroos dominated possession and territory and thoroughly deserved their victory. Wales tackled themselves to a standstill but the superior speed and skill of Australia saw them win their second game against Rachel Taylor’s side in the tournament.
After having the better of the early exchanges Australia had to wait until the 16th minute before getting any reward. The forwards worked the ball close to the Wales try-line before prop Liz Patu plunged over out wide.
Wales struggled to get into the game but their strong defence held Australia at bay.
After 23 minutes Wales captain Rachel Taylor received a stern warning on behalf of the team due to Welsh players giving away penalties in the danger zone.
Moments later Australia kicked to within five metres of the Welsh tryline and after patient play from the forwards, Dalena Denninson picked from the back of a ruck and dived over.
Wales briefly gained territory inside the Australian half and had their dominant scrum to thank for their opening points. Sioned Harries burst from the set-piece to set up a midfield ruck where the Wallaroos infringed. Robyn Wilkins stepped up and slotted over the penalty.
Wales finished the half strongly but had to make two changes with hooker Lowri Harries being stretchered off while lock Shona Powell Hughes took a boot to the face but she returned from the bloodbin in time for the restart.
Play was held up for some considerable time as medics attended to Sioned Harries who became the second Welsh player to leave the field on a stretcher.
Australia continued to attack but the Welsh defence frustrated the Wallaroos with staunch defence. Eventually Australia had to settle for a penalty by Ashley Hewson to increase the lead to 13-3 after 60 minutes.
The Wallaroos continued to camp inside the Wales half and for once their passes stuck to send winger Trica Brown over in the corner.
Six minutes from time Sharni Williams glided over before Cobie-Jane Morgan put the icing on the cake with a well taken try right on the stroke of full time.
