Wakley proud after final weekend in charge

Despite knowing the odds were stacked against them in their group – drawn with series regulars England and Ireland, and overall leaders New Zealand – Wales showed more than enough courage and determination to make their departing coach proud.
 
“Day one was tough but it was a fantastic experience due to the amount of defending we did,” said Wakley. “Our focus for day two wasn’t too much on reviewing what happened, but more of a preview of what was to come.”
 
On the second day, Wales would meet Ireland once again, and against whom youngster Kayleigh Packer had scored her country’s first ever World Series try. This time it was Jaz Joyce, on a weekend of typically try-scoring form for the Pembrokeshire wing, who crossed for Wales.
 
Joyce had scored against England in the pool stage – as did the returning Alisha Butchers – whilst the Olympian also touched town against New Zealand after a stunning long-range effort. There was a further try against Japan, added to one from Shona Powell-Hughes. 
 
“On Saturday we were really positive and we knew we had to do more to get possession and keep possession. The girls were excellent, For the majority of the Trophy Semi-Final against Ireland game we were up, and the [11th place play-off against] Japan went right to the wire. Those are two teams with plenty of World Series exposure.
 
“It has given our players real drive to achieve World Series status as well as hopefully inspiring players at home that this stage is where they want to be.”
 
Wakley acknowledged that there is a lot of hard work to come for the team, but insisted he is hopeful for their future. “I know the players are buzzing to start the Rugby Europe tournament in two weeks,” he said, with assistant coach Jonathan Hooper set to take the reins until the end of the season.
 
“It was emotional to coach my last tournament yesterday but I couldn’t have asked for more commitment. I’m proud of all of the girls, and would also like to say a special thank you to all the players at home who pushed these girls hard for their spots: they have been instrumental in this sevens programme for the last two years.”