After two game days in which they played two 35-minute matches, the final day was a full-length 70 contest – and Wales certainly saved their best till last!
After beating Scotland and losing to France, Ireland and England in the shorter matches, Branwen Metcalfe’s team were determined to put everything they had learned in the build-up to the Festival, and over the game days, to good effect.
The Wales skipper led by example as she scored two tries and there were also braces for wing Saran Jones and centre Hannah Lane. Outside half Hanna Marshall added three conversions in tricky conditions.
It was a performance that left head coach Lillicrap pleased with the outcome and looking forward positively to the future.
“I’m really please for the girls as everything seemed to come together. There were 45mph gales but that didn’t stop the girls from playing,” said Llillicrap.
“They took their opportunities well and scored some great tries. To score 41 points was no mean feat in those conditions.
Wales U18 win good line-out possession
“We had a six-week build-up before coming into the Festival. We lived in each other’s pockets for two weeks and they learned a lot about each other and made some good connections.
“Playing test match rugby is very different to what they are used to. It’s not just about the results of the games on the field, it’s about learning about themselves and the game plans. They put it all together on the final day. Hopefully, this is just the start of the journey for these players, and we will continue to see them grow and develop.
“I’ve told them the world is now their oyster if they continue to develop. I feel honoured and privileged to work with such a fantastic group of young women.
“They have a lot of talent and if we can keep harnessing that they can go on to some great places in the future. They will all have the tour blues when they go home, and I hope this leaves them hungry for more.
“The win against Italy was the highlight of the Festival for me. After all the hard work they had put in it was great to end on such a high.”
Italy had the better of the opening exchanges and took the lead when hooker Cheli Chiara powered over for a try at the posts. Alia Bitonci added the extras.
Wales back on the attack
Wales responded instantly and after a strong carry from Evie Hill, No 8 Metcalfe used her strength and power to score her side’s first try of the match. Marshall’s successful conversion levelled the score.
With 17 minutes on the clock, Lilicrap’s side showcased their excellent passing skills as they moved the ball from left to right to enable the strong running Saran Jones to race into the corner for the first of her two tries.
It wasn’t long before the host nation extended their lead further. A strong driving maul pushed the Italian defence back and Metcalfe managed to cross for her second try.
In what was a free-flowing match, Italy clawed their way back into the contest just before the break when Vittoria Francolini scored to make in a five-point gap at half-time, 17-12.
Wales dominated the start of the second half and after Italy conceded three penalties in a short space of time, Elisa Cecati was shown a yellow card for a high tackle. That gave the hosts the chance to increase their lead and prop Evie Hill forced her way over.
What followed was even better as centre Hannah Lane used her electric pace to notch a great solo try. She followed that up 10 minutes later with her second as she raced onto a great pass from Marshall.
Italy used their powerful pack to hit back and Chiara crashed over for her second try. It was only brief respite, though, as Saran Jones picked off a pass to race clear on the interception to take Wales into the forties.
Alice Antonazzo scored a consolation try for the Italians at the end, but there was no denying that Wales were the superior side on the day.
“I’m ecstatic, really proud of the girls, and it has been an absolute privilege to captain this team,” said two-try hero Metcalfe.
“Beating Italy has to be the highlight of the Festival because it meant we finished on a high. We want to play high speed rugby and we were able to do that by the end of the week.”
Wales (v Italy) Katie Johnson; Saran Jones, Hannah Lane, Isla McMullen, Ffion Davies; Hanna Marshall, Seren Lockwood; Crystal James, Shanelle Williams, Evie Hill, Alaw Pyrs, Angel Band, Jorja Aiono, Lola Mitchell, Branwen Metcalfe (captain)
Reps: Tai Jones, Stella Orrin, Elan Jones, Robyn Davies, Evie Gill, Lily Hawkins, Rhiannon Griffin, Marnie George
