Scotland U19 defeated by Wales

Scotland struggled to get a foothold in the first-half, with Wales taking advantage by deploying their backs and playing an open, expansive game.

An early injury to Scotland prop, Ben Mace, also hindered Scotland’s efforts in the opening exchanges.

Wales were first on the scoresheet as some well-worked hands bought space for winger Jake Thomas to cross over in the corner.

Having found their stride, the hosts edged further out in front when centre Bradley Roderick sprinted over the whitewash to score.

Wales continued to dominate proceedings before the interval, as Thomas scampered down the wing to score his second try of the game, with Jacob Beetham adding the extras.

HALF-TIME: Wales U19 19-0 Scotland U19

A turgid opening to the second-half ensued as conditions began to take their toll on both side’s ability to play the ball through the hands.

Scotland began to rally and displayed some promising attacks but still struggled to craft the all-important breakthrough.

A handling error from the visitors soon dispelled any danger to the dogged Welsh defence, which they soon turned into attack as Roderick collected a loose ball before racing down the field to score his second.

A frantic final five minutes ensued when Rhodri King scored Wales’ fifth try of the afternoon, however, Scotland proved resilient and composed when Robbie Simpson powered his way over the line.

Moments later, Finn McIlwraith launched himself into action to claim Scotland’s second try of the day, which the scrum-half duly converted.

The late flurry was too little too late, however, as Wales’ dominant first-half performance saw them secure the victory in Ystrad Mynach.

FULL-TIME: Wales U19 31-12 Scotland U19

Scotland U19: Nathan Sweeney; Tom Lanni, Matthew Currie, Scott King, Jordan Craig; Euan Cunningham, Finn McIlwraith; Ben Mace, Robbie Simpson, Dan Gamble, Euan Ferrie, Jamie Campbell, Josh King, Rory Jackson, Harri Morris

Replacements: Scott Clelland, George Breese, Cole Lamberton, Mason Nicholls, Cameron Cobbett, Cameron Lessels, Harry Mercer, Adam Scott

Wales U19: Dan John; Ewan Rosser, Bradley Roderick, Aneurin Owen, Jake Thomas; Jacob Beetham Ethan Lloyd; Dylan Bartlett, Brodie Coglan, Harri O’Connor, Ben Carter, Teddy Williams, Travis Huntley, Gwilym Bradley, Morgan Strong

Replacements: Rhodri King, Theo Bevacqua, Lewys Jones, Rhys Thomas, Cai Davies, Dan Hiscocks, Joe Hawkins, Callum Williams.