Wales defeat England to stay on course for Grand Slam glory

Wales defeated England 40-24 at the national stadium in Cardiff to win the Triple Crown and stay on course for Grand Slam glory.

Wayne Pivac’s men face a match they will be expected to win in Italy in two weeks’ time before what is expected to be a Grand Slam decider against France in Paris.

The Covid-19 pandemic could yet play a part in proceedings however with France and Scotland’s game postponed this weekend.

Wales scored four tries to two against England with Josh Adams, Liam Williams, Kieran Hardy and Cory Hill all crossing the whitewash. Dan Biggar and Callum Sheedy also kicked two penalties each.

Likely to be much discussed will be Josh Adams’ score which was allowed after a quickly taken tap penalty kick from Dan Biggar. Liam Williams try also came despite some pointing to a possible knock on by Louis Rees-Zammit.

A seething England captain, Owen Farell, refused to discuss the incidents after the match, saying they were beyond their control.

Ultimately however England were well-beaten due to their own lack of discipline, particularly in the final quarter. Wales’ cutting edge in attack was also a huge factor – it was the first time Wales had scored as many as 40 points against England.

Three wins on the bounce represent quite a turnaround for Wayne Pivac who was facing calls to quit after a poor Autumn campaign. Wales were also given poor odds going into the tournament, rated behind France, England and Ireland – and also Scotland after their win over England at Twickenham.