Wales set the tone for a pulsating day’s play in Dublin with a dramatic 35-29 win over Scotland before France cruised past Italy to secure their third win in as many matches.
A large crowd gathered to cheer on hosts Ireland in the competition finale but England more than spoiled the party, winning big as the sun set in Dublin.
Wales set the tone for a pulsating day’s play with a dramatic win over Scotland.
The lead changed hands throughout an absorbing nine-try contest which ended with Wales celebrating their first win of the competition.
Scotland had earlier hit the front inside two minutes after an excellent pick up from hooker Seb Stephen who crashed over in front of the posts.
The sides then exchanged penalties before a delicious offload from Wales flanker Kyle Harris allowed Kodie Stone to race clear and touch down in the corner.
It was Scotland though who enjoyed much of the play in a lively first half but they were unable to break through a resolute defence and were punished for their profligacy on the stroke of half time.
Harri Wilde added his second penalty before Scotland’s Freddy Douglas was sent to the sin bin. Wales made the most of the man advantage, going wide to score through full-back Scott Delnevo, who had been a late call up to start.
The Wales U18 men’s side at Energia Park
That flurry of late points put the red corner of Energia Park 18-10 in front at half time but their lead evaporated just as quickly as it had formed after a chaotic start to the second period.
Johnny Ventisei scored after charging down a clearance kick from fly-half Wilde before the ever-threatening Samuel Rockley danced his way through to give Scotland a four-point lead.
But Wales soon reclaimed the initiative through hooker Evan Wood and then stretched their lead to 10 points when Steffan Emanuel tiptoed his way to the line.
Scotland’s Stephen crossed for his second to leave just a point between the sides heading into the final 20 minutes but Wales responded again through replacement prop Sam Scott and managed the closing stages well to finish their campaign with a memorable win.
