Scotland U18 lose out to Wales U18 in series opener

Scotland U18 lost out 22-6 to a strong Wales U18 outfit in their opening match of the U18 International Series at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park on Saturday evening. Ally Donaldson’s side took the lead during the opening exchanges after sustained pressure led to a penalty opportunity for out-half Matt Davidson, who converted to send the Scots in front.On the half-hour mark, Wales made the most of territory in the close quarters and managed to score the first try of the match to claim their authority before pushing the conversion attempt wide of the sticks.Minutes later, another penalty opportunity just outside Wales’ 22 enabled Davidson to step up and claim back the lead with a successful three-pointer.Before the interval, Wales managed to bag their second try of the match to go in at the break ahead by six.Half-time: Wales U18 12-6 Scotland U18In the second-half, the tournament hosts enjoyed early possession and territory, which led to a third try and with a conversion secured, Wales began to control proceedings.A further penalty for Wales provided them with a comfortable lead as Scotland then made several changes in the pack and throughout the back-line.Scotland continued to fight until the final whistle and will now look to build towards Wednesday’s game against Italy following their first tournament hit out against Wales.Full-time: Wales U18 22-6 Scotland U18 Scotland U18: James McCaig; Jack Blain, Andrew McLean, Grant Hughes, Jacob Lineen; Matt Davidson, Gus Warr; Andrew Nimmo, Finlay Scott, Murphy Walker, Cameron Henderson, Marshall Sykes, Jack McLean, Connor Boyle CAPTAIN, Rory Darge, Replacements: Angus Fraser, Will Owen, Dan York, Oliver Cattell, Drew Davison, Roan Frostwick, Ross Thompson, Rory McMichael, Jack Hutchison, Jon Searle, Cameron Symes.U18 International Series Fixtures Wednesday 12 April at Parc y Scarlets, Llanelli:- Scotland v Italy (3.30pm)- England v Ireland (5.15pm)- Wales v Canada (7.35pm)Sunday 16 April at CCB Centre for Sporting Excellence, Ystrad Mynach:- Italy v Canada (12 noon)- Scotland v England (2.30pm)- Wales v Ireland (4.15pm) Image: gerry/gpfoto.ie