Welsh rugby fans have been left delighted after their team made it through the group stages of the Rugby World Cup in Japan, with four wins out of four. This is quite the turnaround for a team that was facing off-field issues with the Welsh Rugby Union, and had only won two of their previous ten games. So, how did they manage to make it through the group stages, and what were the standout moments for fans and pundits?
The team began their campaign in Bordeaux, facing Fiji, with many believing that their opponents would provide a significant challenge. However, after building up a lead early on, Wales defended stoutly and withstood a physical test from Fiji. James Hook, a former Welsh rugby player, said that Josh Adams’ monstrous hit on Selestino Ravutaumada was one of his most memorable moments. Unfortunately for Semi Radradra, the Fijian centre, he dropped the ball with the try line in sight during the final play of the game.
Next up was a match in Nice against a determined Portugal side. Wales eventually won 28-8, with a bonus-point try secured in the final seconds of the game. Despite many fans expecting a try-fest, Portugal remained resilient throughout the match.
Their final match was against Australia in Lyon, where they secured their greatest ever victory over their southern hemisphere rival, with a final score of 40-6. Wales’ victory over Australia ensured their presence in the knockout stages of the World Cup in Japan. Now, they are likely to face Japan or Argentina, and with the bookies placing Wales as the favourites, many fans are dreaming of a third World Cup semi-final appearance in four competitions under Warren Gatland.
However, Gatland knows that tough challenges lie ahead, and knockout rugby means that there is no margin for error. Nonetheless, the Welsh fans will be hoping that their team can continue their resurgence and make a real impression in Japan
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