That was the opinion of head coach Chris Horsman, who along with assistant coach Geraint Lewis has now overseen four victories in seven matches against the Red Rose at this level.
“The boys did very well, particularly in the first half,” said the former Bath, Worcester and Wales tighthead. “It was obviously disappointing to lose to South Africa last week in our opening game, and they could have been really down in that short space of time before playing England, but we talked about managing outcomes in a positive manner and the players learnt from it.
“In Boland Landbou last week we gave away too much territory and possession, but we played some fantastic rugby and showed a hell of a lot of character. Realistically, it was a game we should have won.”
Despite fielding seven new players in the starting XV for England, there was no upheaval in Wales’ approach to the game in Stellenberg. “We didn’t go away from our style of play. I thought the rugby our boys displayed was outstanding, the forwards and backs interlinking well.”
Horsman admitted that the second half could have got away from Wales at one stage. “I’ve seen it hundreds of times: you’re in control of the game but then it slips away. But actually, the work we did off the field came to fruition at the end of the second half when the team put in some great defensive sets and closed the game out very well.
“Credit’s got to go to the coaches this week too: James Chapron, Richie Rees, and obviously Geraint Lewis. What Geraint did with the defence in such a limited amount of time between the South Africa and England games was to set the boys a target, and they certainly achieved it.”
Having spoken about the three non-negotiables expected of his players – workrate, toughness and imposing their game – Horsman said he was glad to see those goals achieved. “We worked hard, were physical and tough, and when we click, we look as good as any team out there. It just shows what talented players we have at age grade level in Wales.”
Wales’ final match of the U18 International Series takes place this Saturday against France (11:15 BST, S4C live stream).
