Having reached the Cup knockout stages in the previous two tournaments, Wales were hopeful of making it three in a row but defeats to Japan (19-26), Argentina (21-42) and Australia (12-31) left huge question marks hanging over the squad.
Wales head coach Gareth Williams was bristling with disappointment at the conclusion of day one at Singapore’s National Stadium which saw his side drop down to the second tier of competition in the Bowl.
“We can’t hide away from the fact that it was a disappointing result against Japan. It was a typically difficult game – each of our three previous matches with them have been decided by one score, the shame is we were the wrong side of the one score for the first time.
“We didn’t take advantage of our early opportunities that could have stemmed Japan’s enthusiasm and quality, and we did not defend their offloads effectively enough.
“This always had the potential of being a tight group. It was certainly a disappointment, but also a big part in some of these player’s development on this circuit.”
Following the defeat to Japan, who earned a full time spot on next year’s circuit after qualification at last weekend’s Hong Kong tournament, Wales then succumbed to Argentina, which proved another game to forget for the tough talking Williams.
“It was an unacceptable performance after the gains we have made in the past six weeks,” he lamented.
“It is the first time I have had to question the players’ mentality going in to the match. We failed to exert ourselves at the start of the first half and the beginning of the second half. Disappointing is not the word. It has proved a huge reality check following 6/8 weeks of progression.”
Wales had only pride to play for in the final pool game against Australia who simply had to win to qualify for the Cup quarter-finals.
Owen Jenkins scored a first half try but Australia were in command 21-7 at the break. Wales scored a second half try through Lloyd Evans but Australia waltzed through for two touchdowns to register a comfortable victory and condemn Wales to a third defeat.
However, Williams saw enough glimpses of what his side are capable of producing, to suggest there will be an improvement on show tomorrow.
“The performance was improved, however, inaccurate work at the break down did not allow us to capitalise on our in-roads,” he said.
“There was a big call at 21-7 down just after half time that prevented us bringing the score back to 21-14, but overall, we have got what we deserve in this very difficult group, and it serves as a reality check to all the progress we have made in the past two months.
“The challenge now is regrouping, and picking up from the Australian performance in the Bowl on day two.”
Singapore 7s results:
Wales 19 Japan 26
Tries: Luke Morgan, Kristian Phillips, Luke Treharne: Cons: J Williams, Phillips
Wales 21 Argentina 42
Tries: Williams (2), Lloyd Evans; Cons: Williams (3)
Wales 12 Australia 31
Tries: Owen Jenkins, Lloyd Evans; Con – Williams
