The former Wales Sevens player believes it was another productive experience for this talented group of players at Birmingham University. “We had a great start on day one, racing to a 15-0 lead against [overall winners] Ireland who eventually battled back to seal a win on the last play.”
Wales were able to let loose in their second match with a resounding victory against Scotland – “a game that showed our attacking flair,” according to Hooper – before finishing the day with a 17-17 result against England. It was a game Wales could have won, with England scoring a late try to salvage the draw.
England would gain the upper hand on day two, for which Hooper gives them credit. “They started strongly and prevented us from playing our exciting, expansive game.”
The Home Nations tournament would end on a high note for Wales, though, as they finished with another victory against Scotland.
“It was a superb learning experience for all of our players, five of whom will now be involved in our senior training squad,” Hooper says. “The developmental outlook of the squad was exemplified by the fact that seven of the 12 players will still be eligible for the U18s next summer.”
Wales Women U18 Sevens: Ellie Morgan, Alex Callender, Rosie Batchelor (Cardiff Blues), Darcy Thomas, Hannah Powell, Lleucu George, Kenzie Tutton, Megan Davies, Niamh Terry (c), Lauren Smyth, Megan Webb, Celyn Lazenby.
