Wales Seek Progress Despite Six Nations Struggles
Wales have now endured seven consecutive defeats in the Six Nations Championship. Sean Lynn maintains that despite another heavy loss, his team is narrowing the gap on the world’s elite rugby nations.
Lynn's search for a Six Nations victory continues after Wales were comprehensively outplayed by France, losing 38-7 at Cardiff. As they prepare to face England next, the prospect of extending their losing streak to eight matches appears likely.
Following England’s dominant 84-7 victory over Scotland, even the most hopeful Welsh supporters are apprehensive about the challenge ahead at Ashton Gate next Saturday. Lynn commented on England’s strength, saying,
"I watched the first ten minutes of that game in the hotel before [Wales' match]. England have got a lot of firepower haven't they,"
"I watched them against Ireland last week as well and you can see they have just got so much pace in the backs in Jess Breach and Ellie Kildunne.
"The big focus has to be on us, how do we move the dial, how are we fixing our processes in attack and defence."
Wales’ Recent Form and Performance Against France
Wales have lost 11 of their last 12 Tests. While a win against France was unlikely, Wales did manage to unsettle the visitors at the Arms Park. Pressure in the forward pack resulted in two quick yellow cards for France, either side of a penalty try, alongside several uncharacteristic errors from the French side.
Despite holding France to a 7-7 scoreline at halftime, Wales failed to capitalize during a nine-minute period when France was reduced to 13 players. The second half saw France regain control, scoring three tries within 14 minutes.
"We attempted 247 tackles, that's a lot and it does take its toll," said Lynn.
"We have to look to keep the ball more. It was the same against Scotland, we were forcing the ball.
"The set-piece did well in the first half but not in the second. We need to be more consistent in those areas."
Lynn emphasized that Wales are making progress despite the scoreline, stating,
"We went in level at half-time against a top four side and I thought the final scoreline was harsh,"
"It's just making sure we're getting better with the first 10-15 minutes of the second half and the bench needs to be making the sort of impact that France's did."
England’s Dominance and Wales’ Upcoming Challenge
England's performance has been described as evolving from "rusty" to "relentless," delivering a statement win. Wales now face the daunting task of confronting the defending Six Nations champions, who have demonstrated formidable firepower and pace.
Wales’ Commitment and Tactical Focus
Wales showed commitment, discipline, and defensive effort, including try-saving tackles and putting bodies on the line. However, limitations were evident, particularly in the kicking game, with a young squad still working through tactical challenges during matches. Missed tackles and fatigue affected their ability to contain physically imposing opponents.
Captain Kate Williams highlighted the team’s strategic focus on speed of thought and action to compensate for a lack of size compared to other nations. She said,
"It doesn't matter about size. If you're looking one on one, we can go toe-toe with grit and effort but as a nation we need to be so much technically and tactically better [than opponents],"
"We're good at that in patches but if we're not, you know weight wins when you play the likes of France.
"We know that. We're not going to suddenly grow 20kg heavier so that [technique and tactics] is where we are focussing our efforts and improving."
Wales will need to make rapid improvements as they prepare to face the full strength of the world champions next week.
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