Wales vs Barbarians Post-Game

Okay, so that last post seemed a little rushed, but then again, seeing as I did it typing on my phone whilst enjoying a Brains and soaking up the atmosphere, I'm glad that I tried! However, now for the big daddy, the post-game blog!

Wales's so-called second string XV saw off a challenging Barbarians side 30-21 at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff yesterday. However, even though several Welsh youngsters were blooded yesterday, it was ultimately the relative veteran in James Hook that led the charge to defeat the Baa-Baas, as he scored 20 of Wales' 30 points.

Much maligned for his displays in the months leading up to and including last year's World Cup, Hook looked like the player he was once billed to be. He proved that he could lead a back-line effectively, and his kicking, which again had come under scrutiny, was clinical. Yesterday was a game that called on the veterans to step-up, and the ever reliable Ian Evans, and the Jones duo of Alun-Wyn and Ryan, stepped up and led, giving the youngsters a chance to settle with more ease.

Of all the new Wales faces, Harry Robinson was the stand-out. His 60-yard dash for his try was phenomenal, his legs recreating that of the Roadrunner. Even Mils Muliaina, who is an experienced fullback to say the least and no slouch, admired the speed of which Robinson used to obliterate through the Baa-Baas team. Other players who shone were Aled Brew, who packs a solid punch to say the least, and was well worth his somewhat fortuitous score, and Dan Biggar, who gave the kind of performance that helped his Osprey's side to an unlikely victory over Leinster in the Pro-12 final last weekend.

However, it was a more important day for two Williams'. Martyn Williams finally reached his 100th cap, becoming only the third player in Welsh history to do so. Nugget came on to a rousing reception, and after confirming his retirement post game, it was a fitting way to end such a special international career. Also, Shane Williams played his game too, though this time for the Black and White for the Baa-Baas, rather than the customary red. Though seemingly going through the retirement process since December when he scored that magical try in the last minute against Australia, Shane has finally hung up his boots, a week after his club career ended with another last minute try, this time to win the game for the Ospreys. However, there would be no last minute dart over the line this time, but he was inevitably greeted with much love from the Wales faithful. Thank you both Martyn and Shane for all you have done over your storied careers.

For Wales now, it's time to go to Australia for three test matches. Though unbeaten in all six matches in 2012, Wales have not beaten Australia Down-Under since 1969, so it will be a very stern, and true, test of how good this "golden-era" of Welsh players actually are. In the past year alone, Wales have lost twice to the Wallabies, once in the World Cup, and in Cardiff in December, so it is a fair assumption that they go in as under-dogs. However, a close series would be seen as a success, especially given the poor record.

So until a week from now, I bid you adieu!

Final Score: Wales 30 - Tries: Robinson, Hook, Brew. Convs: Hook (3). Pens: Hook (3).
                   Barbarians 21 - Tries: Rees, Donald (2). Convs: Donald (3).

Dewch ar Cymru!

Pre-game Wales vs Barbarians

As something new, I am currently writing this from inside the Millennium Stadium where Wales are set to take on the Barbarians in 45 minutes.

For Wales, it's their first game since beating France in the final 6 Nations game in March. With a three game tour of Australia coming up, they have named a relatively inexperienced side, but one still full of talent. Matthew Rees leads the side, which also contains veterans Alun-Wyn Jones, Ryan Jones, and James Hook. Martyn Williams is also in line to get his 100th cap, but starts among the replacements.

The Barbarians field a typically strong team, but one that includes 3 Welsh players: Duncan Jones, Richie Rees, and, playing his last ever competitive match, Shane Williams. Captained by John Smit, and with Mils Muliainia at fullback, they are going to be a tough test for the Welsh boys, even if the final result isn't important.

Dewch ar Cymru!