A magnificent second half revival engineered by inspirational skipper Alfie Prygodzicz saw Wales record a first victory over French opposition at any pathway level for six years when the national Under 19s side stunned France U19 with a 34-31 victory at St Helen’s.
France dominated the first half and would have been disappointed with their 17-5 advantage at the break. The visitors dominated possession with No 8 Lilian Baret catching the eye with a solo try early on to set the tone for his side.
His fellow back row Celo Bard powered over as Wales struggled to get a foot hold in the game. Lively winger Yanis Laher scored France’s third try but as the first half neared its conclusion the home side gradually grew in confidence.
Hooker McKenzie Scales powered over on the stroke of halt-time to keep Wales in the hunt.
The game was turned on its head in the second half when Wales scored 24 unanswered points. Tiaan Hall powered his way over for Will Ford to convert before a penalty try put Wales in front for the first time in the match.
Prygodzicz then scored twice in double quick time to put his side in command before a late rally by France left the game on a knife edge.
Replacement winger Tom Delalan chipped behind the defence and collected the bounce to race over and convert his own try.
France threw everything at Wales in the dying stages but the home side edged further ahead when replacement fly half Ben Coomer slotted a penalty to give his side a 10-point buffer.
Long striding second row Christian Mendes Tani raced over for a converted try to leave nerves shredded but Wales were able to hold on for a remarkable victory to make it a double success on the day after Wales men had shocked the All Blacks at Principality Stadium.
“It was a real honour to lead Wales against France and get the win in the first international at the newly built St Helen’s,” said Prygodzicz.
“The boys watched Wales beat the All Blacks in the hotel and it was great to see and a real inspiration. It’s been a long time since a Wales side has beaten France in the pathway so we’re delighted to come away with the win.”
Scorers:
Wales: Tries McKenzie Scales, Tiaan Hall, Pen try, Alfie Prygodzicz (2); Cons: Will Ford, Ben Coomer; Pen: Ben Coomer
France: Tries – Lilian Baret, Celo Bard, Yanis Laher, Tom Delalan, Christian Mendes Tani; Cons: Bixintxo Daguerre, Tom Delalan (2)