Wales show true grit to see off 14-man France

Controversial late try secures vital win for Grand Slam champions

WALES 20 FRANCE 19

Warren Gatland admitted Wales were forced to draw upon their reserves of character to dig themselves out of trouble in yesterday’s World Cup quarter-final victory over France.

The Grand Slam champions trailed 12-0 at one stage and 19-10 at half-time, but they capitalised on the 47th-minute dismissal of Sebastien Vahaamahina for an elbow on the head of Aaron Wainwright to spring their escape act.

Ross Moriarty scored the decisive try with six minutes remaining.

“Hats off to France because they were excellent and were very unlucky. They have definitely improved since the Six Nations,” Gatland said.

“I’m very proud of our players because they never give up even when they’re under a bit of pressure. They keep fighting and finding a way to get a result.

“The red card was significant, but that sometimes galvanises teams as well.”

“We didn’t play our best, but we showed great character, and that’s testament to this group of men and now we can look forward to the semi-final.”

Referee Jaco Peyper made one of the easiest decisions of his career by showing Vahaamahina a red card for his assault on Wainwright, which took place in full view of Oita Stadium.

“The officials dealt with it appropriately. I don’t think anyone could complain about that,” said Gatland.

“The right decision was made. “Rugby is heat of the moment stuff and he made an error of judgment. “

Gatland revealed number eight Josh Navidi limped off with a hamstring injury while centre Jonathan Davies was forced to withdraw from the starting XV before kick-off because of a knee problem.

“Josh Navidi has a hamstring, but we don’t know how severe it is. Jonathan wasn’t far away from being right – he just made a decision that was best for the team,” Gatland said.

France boss Jacques Brunel endorsed Vahaamahina’s dismissal but was more concerned by Wales’ match-winning try that saw the ball ripped from Les Blues hands before appearing to travel forwards to Justin Tipuric.

“The red card I don’t contest – when you see the images it’s very clear.

“He did have contact with the face so we can’t deny that,” Brunel said.

“Of course it changed the game. “When you’re playing half the match with 14 men it’s difficult.

“I want to stress the quality and courage of our team because we had to make up for this numerical disadvantage.”

He added: “I would like to see the last try again because they grabbed the ball and it went forward.

“I would like to see that image again and I’m disappointed about it.”

AP. Wales players celebrate after Ross Moriarty scores the decisive try.