Wales U20s face do-or-die clash with France after seeing off stubborn Spain
Wales U20 ran in four tries to keep their hopes of a World Rugby U20 Championship semi-final spot alive with a hard-fought 31-10 victory over Spain U20.
Richard Whiffin's side simply had to win after losing against New Zealand in the opening round and while Spain were extremely stubborn, Wales won this game comfortably. Wales are up to seven points in Pool A, after picking up two losing bonus points against the Baby Blacks, and must beat defending champions France U20s, who play New Zealand later today, to progress to the semi-finals.
Tries from Kodi Stone, Elijah Evans, Ioan Emanuel and Ieuan Davies were enough to get Wales over the line. Wales could not have asked for a better start with outside-half Harri Ford the architect, attacking the gainline before breaking clear with a show and go.
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With Spain's defence at sixes and sevens Wales went wide with a well-weighted grubber kick by Steffan Emanuel allowing Kodi Stone to put pressure on Lucien Richardis before he regathered the ball to score. Ford slammed the conversion over from the touchline but Spain hit back with a period of pressure as they played at pace, while their physicality was surprisingly good.
Wales were soon down to 14 men as No 8 Owen Conquer got sent to the sin bin due to his side conceding three penalties in quick succession, which allowed Gonzalo Otamendi to open Spain's account from the kicking tee. The young dragons weathered the storm and extended their lead with a penalty from Ford before Elijah Evans crossed for their