Wales U20 stage remarkable comeback to end Six Nations on a high against Italy

Wales ended their Six Nations campaign on a high as they staged a remarkable second-half comeback to beat Italy and avoid the dreaded Wooden Spoon.

Richard Whiffin’s side were bullied at the scrum in a bruising first-half at Cardiff Arms Park, but turned the game completely on its head after the break, scoring four tries to secure a bonus point win in front of a home crowd.

Italy held a commanding 15-0 lead at half-time, with Marcos Gallorini powering over before the visitors were awarded a penalty try shortly before the break. With indiscipline getting the better of Wales, who were unable to handle the power of the Italian scrum, Josh Morse was sent to the bin as the hosts ended the half with 14 men.

Who knows what was said in the Welsh dressing room at half-time, but it certainly worked, as Wales came out after the break a different team. Playing at a much more lively tempo, Harry Thomas pulled one back for Whiffin’s men before captain Harry Beddall and debutants Kodi Stone and Matty Young scored to complete the thrilling comeback.

Wales U20: 15. Matty Young*, 14. Huw Anderson, 13. Elijah Evans*, 12. Macs Page, 11. Aidan Boshoff, 10. Harri Ford, 9. Rhodri Lewis; 1. Josh Morse, 2. Evan Wood, 3. Kian Hire, 4. Jonny Green, 5. Nick Thomas, 6. Lucas de la Rua, 7. Harry Beddall, 8. Morgan Morse

Replacements: 16. Harry Thomas, 17. Jordan Morris, 18. Sam Scott, 19. Gethyn Cannon*, 20. Osian Thomas, 21. Ieuan Davies, 22 Elis Price, 23. *Kodi Stone

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