Sport
Autumn Internationals leave the Welsh wondering
3rd December 2010
Many Welsh rugby supporters were left deflated after the Autumn International series; with the best result being a 16-16 draw with Fiji, summing up the performance Wales had given.
However, this is not a repeat of the shambles at the world cup in 2007, there were areas that the boys can be proud of, that could be further developed for the forthcoming World Cup in New Zealand; particularly, their consistent and tough scrummaging - which put the likes of Australia on the back foot, thanks to the cornerstone of the Welsh pack: Adam Jones . Congratulations also need to be issued for strong players like Stephen Jones who kept Wales fighting with his kicking boots.
There were, perhaps, some unfortunate mishaps, such as Shane Williams’ shoulder injury and Jamie Roberts’ wrist surgery which may have incited a lack of confidence amongst the team. Although, some could say these injuries gave a chance for young stars to have their moment in the spotlight; but, neither Aled Brew nor Tom James stepped up to the plate.
However, one which captured the eye of many and showed strength, power and pace was 18 year old George North who scored two tries on his debut against Australia. Warren Gatling will most certainly be keeping an eye on the young winger for a role in 2011 World Cup.
The lowest point of the series for Wales has to be the game against Fiji, the lowest attendance at the Millennium Stadium probably showed that the fans weren’t feeling too confident, much like the players. Straight from the kick-off Fiji were out with all guns blazing and the home team looked like they were unprepared for the physicality of the contest, demonstrated by some bone crunching tackling on Aled Brew. The best the Welsh could come away with was a penalty try as the Fijians pressured them into butchering tries.
Warren Gatland and the coaches showed that all was not lost. The final match was against the mighty All Blacks and surprisingly, Wales dominated the possession and territory throughout most parts of the game. The pack dealt well with the super human kiwis up front and eventually, after numerous attempts scored a try. A victory on its own. There were simple mistakes that urgently need to be addressed such as making touch with penalty kicks and using overlaps to their full potential. But I’m sure that will be seen to before the six nations.
Overall, this series was not the performance the Welsh had been hoping for, going without a single win. England are the next big obstacle in the six nations and will most likely dominate up front. Hopefully a rest over Christmas will give the squad time to re-focus on their goals.