PLAY IT FROM ANYWHERE!
Wales urged to be bold in Six Nations opener
WALES head into Six Nations battle with Italy today vowing to ‘play from anywhere’ as they bid to buck the trend of an enthralling opening weekend of the tournament.
Yesterday’s two opening games saw the sides that began as favourites both receive a rude awakening, Ireland losing 27-22 to Scotland at Murrayfield and champions England struggling to a 19-16 Twickenham win against France.
The Irish were stunned by a firedup Scottish outfit who stormed into a 21-8 lead after a blistering start saw them score two tries in the opening 20 minutes.
England, meanwhile, were trailing 16-12 to the French with less than 10 minutes left before a try from re- placement centre Ben Te’o got them out of jail.
Wales will be expected to dispatch Italy despite the Azzurri enjoying home advantage and being under the direction of a new coach in Conor O’Shea. But Rob Howley’s side will be mindful of the pitfalls this competition always throws up having seen Saturday’s events unfold.
His side, do, however, seem intent on continuing their strategy of open attacking play.
“We’ve got to bring our A-game and be ready to play from anywhere and be ready to play a territory game as well,” said kicking coach Neil Jenkins yesterday, as Wales went through final preparations.
“You’ve got to earn your right to put the points on the scoreboard and sometimes that’s three, six, nine, 12, and not seven, 14, 21. But Test matches are all about winning, it’s as simple as that, and if the bonus point comes into play well so be it and it will be a fantastic tournament.”
Wales have a clean bill of health going into their opener, with no new injury concerns among the squad.
Six Nations special in today’s 20-page Sport on Sunday