Horsman ready for battling Canada

WALES Under-18s will be taking an International Series ‘physical’ this evening when they tackle Canada at the Parc y Scarlets (7.35pm)

Chris Horsman’s side opened their campaign by beating Scotland 22-6 at the Cardiff Arms Park on Saturday night, hours after the Canadians were put to the sword 55-11 by England at Taff’s Well.

But the Welsh coaching team are taking nothing for granted and are bracing the Welsh youngsters for a tough encounter down west.

“There will be a bit of focus on improving some of the things we did against Scotland, but it’s important that we do not get fixated on things that didn’t go too well against Scotland or what the threats are of Canada,” said Horsman.

The Welsh coaching set-up will rotate roles during the competition, and Horsman praised coach Danny Milton’s contribution to Wales’ defensive output as they kept Scotland scoreless in the second half.

“The defence was excellent, and I think Danny has done a sterling job. With the role changes during the series, we’re challenging ourselves as much as the players,” he added.

“It’s been really interesting in terms of changing our roles going into this camp. I’ve been lucky to swap with James Chapron – who’s done the defence for a long time – so he’s been mentoring me with that process,” said Milton.”

“Canada are going to be direct, and we’ve got to match that physicality and stick to our game plan.

“We really respect them, but we’ve got to go in with the mindset that we want to keep building and get the win.”

Scotland and Italy get things under way in Llanelli (3.30pm), while England play Ireland in the other game (5.15pm).