Wales Women 6 – Ireland Women 11

With both sides chasing one automatic qualification place in this last game of the 2005 Six Nations, the atmosphere was tense and emotions high. Both sides showed attacking firepower with Lynne Cantwell (Ireland) and Hayley Baxter (Wales) both having several breaks brought down by sound defences.

Ireland took the lead after 10 minutes through a Joanne O’Sullivan penalty, which was copied 6 minutes later by Welsh outside-half, Awen Thomas. O’Sullivan added a further 3 points in the 23rd minute to give the teams a half-time score of 3-6.

With both sides looking to capitalise on the pressure of the last half, the try-line was constantly in sight at either end of the pitch. Ireland had the first sniff of the line shortly after the restart through a sniping Lynne Cantwell run, but she was tackled by centre Rhian Williams to deny the visitors.

6 minutes later, Williams was in the limelight again with a superb sprint from the half-way line, with flyer Hayley Baxter in support. However, just as Williams laid off to Baxter, the Irish defence gripped and the Welsh were unlucky to miss out on a vital five points. Several more strong attacks came from all quarters, with notable attempts from Louise Rickard, Amy Broadstock and Elen Evans.

Midway through the second half Cantwell once again showed pace with a threatening break down the wing. The onslaught was countered by a thumping tackle from Captain Kylie Wilson, who lead by example from the front. On 71 minutes, Ireland turned the game in their favour as Cantwell dodged the ragged Welsh defence to cross for the only try of the game. Joanne O’Sullivan failed to convert.

With five minutes left on the clock, Wales were given a penalty and nodded to the posts to give replacement outside-half, Stacey Saunders a chance with the boot. She duly provided and brought the score to 6-11. Both Wales and Ireland battled to the bitter end, with a clear vision of the goal awaiting.

Alas for the home side, they were unable to capitalise on their breaks and the Irish eyes were smiling at final whistle. Ireland now finish the tournament in 5th position and are therefore assured their place on the plane to Canada next Autumn.  Wales, however, face a gruelling wait to find if their bid to take an invitation place is successful.

Wales Team
Elen Evans, Hayley Baxter, Rhian Williams, Lowri Jones (Manon Williams, 72), Louise Rickard, Awen Thomas (Stacey Saunders, 72), Kerry Jenkins,  Amy Broadstock, Jenny Davies, Louise Horgan, Ayla Rose (Rachel Brown, 75), Claire Donovan, Catrina Nicholas, Kylie Wilson, Emma Phillips