In the end, the result was as anticipated, but the performance from Wales was a far cry from what we've seen in recent times. Simon Easterby’s side, aiming for a Grand Slam, were pushed to the brink by a determined Welsh team who, at times, tested Ireland’s resolve.
Ultimately, Ireland’s superior power and experience saw them through, with contributions from the bench—most notably Bundee Aki—proving decisive. The half-back pairing of Jamison Gibson-Park and Sam Prendergast were exceptional, with Prendergast’s kicking game demonstrating a level of variety that Wales lacked when it mattered most. While the Welsh side showed significant promise, it was the control and composure under pressure from the Irish half-backs that ultimately made the difference.
Gibson-Park, a key figure in Ireland’s setup, will no doubt feature prominently on Andy Farrell’s team sheet for the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia this summer. Had it not been for his presence, the match could well have swung in Wales’ favour but instead Ireland are celebrating the Triple Crown and look on course for the Grand Slam.
READ MORE: What time are the Six Nations rugby games on TV today?
READ MORE: Gavin Henson turns up at Walkabout in his old Wales kit and famous 2005 haircut
Nevertheless, this was a significant step forward for Wales. They will head to Edinburgh in two weeks with renewed confidence, hoping to break a dismal run of 15 consecutive Test defeats. The transformation of the Welsh team under the new coaching setup cannot be overstated. Despite Warren Gatland’s oft-repeated criticisms of the Welsh press and his contention that their negativity played a role in the country’s rugby decline, it seems clear that his own methods were a contributing factor to Wales' struggles.
While Welsh rugby is still grappling with numerous challenges, it is undeniable that the fresh perspective brought in by the current coaching staff has had a transformative effect. In just 80 minutes against one of the world’s top teams, Wales showcased an impressive shift in approach. Gone was the hesitancy of recent months. Instead, there was a palpable confidence in their play—a self-belief that offers a glimmer of hope for the future.
That such an improvement could be seen after just three full training sessions underlines the effectiveness of the new coaching team. The shackles were off, and Wales looked far more inventive, particularly behind the scrum. Max Llewellyn, whose omission from Gatland’s original squad had raised eyebrows, was key to this resurgence. His powerful carries and incisive runs provided a spark that had been lacking in the opening rounds.
Gareth Anscombe, too, delivered a standout performance, his kicking out of hand positioning Wales in the right areas of the field. Under Gatland, Wales had become predictable, but here they were thinking creatively, offloading at the point of contact, and taking calculated risks in attack. It wasn’t reckless; it was a calculated freedom that allowed their natural skills to shine.
Wales’ attack, previously laborious, was transformed. The midfield partnership of Ben Thomas and Llewellyn, who had struggled in the autumn, was much more dynamic and effective, putting significant pressure on a strong Irish defence.
In terms of physicality, this was Wales’ most aggressive performance since the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The forwards carried the ball with renewed menace, and their line speed in defence was markedly improved.
The myth that Warren Gatland was the sole coach capable of getting the best out of these Welsh players has, for now, been dispelled. The scrum, too, was a pivotal area where Wales excelled. Nicky Smith, often overlooked under Gatland, proved himself an asset, winning four scrum penalties in the first half. His ability to make yards with ball in hand further underscored his value to the team.
The real standout, however, was tighthead WillGriff John. His performance, though understated, was crucial in Wales’ improved scrum performance. After being on the periphery of the squad for several years, John’s return to form with Sale Sharks was evident. He played a pivotal role in Wales’ dominance in the set-piece, while also contributing around the park.
His scrummaging was solid, and whenever Wales had possession, they looked capable of breaking down Ireland’s defence.
Debutant Ellis Mee, who had been playing in England’s second-tier rugby just a year ago, showed that he has a bright future ahead. He nearly sealed a fairytale finish with a try in the final minutes, only for the TMO to rule it out.
Ireland ultimately closed out the game, but if one moment summed up Wales’ renewed confidence, it was Blair Murray’s decision to run the ball from deep beyond the 80-minute mark—an act of defiance that hinted at Wales’ growing self-belief.
While they were ultimately unable to defeat a formidable Irish side, Wales can take heart. This performance, one of ambition and resilience, provided a glimpse of a brighter future for Welsh rugby.
There's still much for Wales to fix and there is a heck of a long way to go before they can start beating the better sides but at least this gave the nation hope that their run of 15 Test defeats on the bounce could end by the conclusion of the Six Nations.
