New Zealand 14-21 Wales
Wales were crowned world champions at the inaugural Deaf Rugby Union World Cup.
A last minute try snuffed out a late New Zealand comeback in Saturday’s final at Eden Park, Auckland.
Profoundly deaf winger Nigel Evans, 21, made a big impression, breaking the Kiwi defence to run in a 40-metre try.
“This will be a big shot in the arm for Welsh rugby,” said ecstatic coach Neville Roberts.
Wales ran in seven tries in beating a Maori and Pacific Islands team 41-10 to book their place in the final.
The Kiwis got the better of neighbours Australia 23-16.
Richard Jones (Hon Secretary Wales Deaf Rugby Union) said “It was a hard match and the Kiwis never gave up”
The scoring sequence was as follows:
3-0, 6-0, 11-0 (half time) 14-0, 14-7, 21-7, 21-14.
The scorers:
For New Zealand:
Tries: R Cole, A Phillips
Cons: O Finaulangi 2
For Wales:
Tries: D Jones, N Francis, P Watts
Cons: R Evans 2
Pens: R Evans
DGs: P Watts, Withey
The win caps a fine tournament for Wales, following wins over the likes of Fiji and Australia.
The next Deaf Rugby World Championship will be in Cardiff in July 2005.
Well done Boys.
