In her BBC Sport Wales column, Sioned Harries speaks to us from the perspective of the Welsh rugby team’s number eight. She discusses the elation of beating Scotland in Edinburgh, a task that was made much easier by the electric, passionate atmosphere of the stadium. This was exacerbated by their incredibly vocal travelling supporters. Despite a close first half, in which Scotland overthrew a five-metre lineout just when Wales had Kerin Lake in the bin, the Welsh came through victorious, with a 30-22 scoreline.
The front row are getting deserved recognition for their hard work, with their number of carries between the three of them incredibly impressive. This was highlighted when the team celebrated the victory and discussed their work rate when compared to the back row at the World Cup. The game held extra significance as Keira Bevan won her 50th cap, with her proud parents presented her with her cap by Shaun Connor, attack and kicking coach at the Ospreys, who Keira used to idolize.
Following the win, the team can look ahead to the challenge that awaits against England. The discipline of the team is becoming a more prominent issue, with 15 penalties conceded against Scotland. At the breakdown, their clinical nature needs to thrive in order to match the might of England. With the record crowd of 8,000 for the Cardiff Arms Park game, the team are looking to extend this record with the Red Roses travelling just over the bridge.
Gerald Davies is a name associated with the energy and spirit behind Welsh rugby. As a former Wales player, and now as a member of the WRU’s management team, Davies is highly regarded in Wales and beyond. A proud moment for him to witness was the 2015 game, when Wales beat England for only the second time in history, with Elinor Snowsill’s perfect cross-field kick for Laurie Harries particularly memorable for Davies.
The BBC Sport Wales column is led by Sioned Harries, and is a great example of broadcasting excellence. It provides an interesting insight into the female rugby team, whilst also keeping the audience in Wales updated on the team’s fortunes. With a unique blend of analysis and insider information, its contents add to the passion of the sport within the nation.