Wales U20s deny England Grand Slam with remarkable victory

Wales U20s denied England a Grand Slam with perhaps one of their famous victories at this level, running out 20-13 victors over their nearest rivals at the Arms Park.

Tries from Steffan Emanuel and Harry Rees-Weldon either side of half-time inspired Richard Whiffin's side to a first win over England at this level in five years, as they ended their tournament with a remarkable performance.

Few would have given Wales too much of a chance prior to kick-off, but they were able to add to wins over Italy and Ireland with another dogged, brave defensive effort.

Wales hadn't beaten England at U20 level since 2020, when Sam Costelow inspired them to a one-point victory at Kingsholm. Since then, England had won the next four with an average margin of 27 points.

Unbeaten in this year's tournament and chasing a Grand Slam, it didn't take the away side long to set their stall out.

Hooker Kepu Tuipulotu, the younger brother of Wales Women's prop Sisi, powered through Wales' defence before offloading to loosehead prop Ralph McEachran to crash over for the opening try.

England continued to dominate, but Wales held firm - with fly-halves Harri Wildi and Ben Coen exchanging penalties.

Then, shortly before half-time, a moment of magic pulled Wales level. A chip over the top bounced into the arms of centre Emanuel, who raced away to score a superb score.

Things would get better shortly after the break, with Tom Bowen putting Rees-Weldon into a bit of space on the wing. The winger still had plenty to do, finishing superbly in the corner for a brilliant score.

From there, Wales defended superbly - taking that lead into the final quarter as each big hit was roared on vociferously by the 8,000 crowd in the Arms Park.

Wilde's penalty 10 minutes