Wales U20s v Italy U20s Scrum V Live

To live in Wales is to be conscious at dusk of the spilled blood that

went into the making of the wild sky. Dying of the immaculate rivers

in all their courses. It is to be aware of both the noisy tractor and

hum of the machine, of strife in the woods, vibrant with spent hours. You

cannot live in the present. At least not in Wales.

There are cries in the dark at night as Powell 's answer the moon and

thick ambush of shadows hushed at the Field's corners. There is no

present in Wales, and no future. There is only the past.

The words of the late local poet RS Thomas landing a lyrical start to

tonight's Scrum V. He may have been gazing into the past but tonight it

is about the here, no land future as a new generation of international

stars get a chance to strut their stuff. This Welsh side was denied

the final hurdle twice in major competitions last year against

England here when they missed out on a Grand Slam and against England

again in the final of the Junior World Championship. There are a lot

of new faces, that is the nature of Under 20s rugby, but hunger to go

one step further is certainly there. Good evening and welcome to Parc

Eirias in Colwyn Bay. A very decent crowd here tonight, despite the

inclement weather. Martyn Williams joins me, and we have said it before

and will see it again in the absence of an A-side this has become a

critical step in the pathway of players. It is hugely important, you

only have to look at tomorrow's starting side, a couple of years ago

they were in the Under 20s team. It shows the pathway is there, it is

live on TV which is an added incentive for players come it is a

shop window. This is a big game for these young kids.

Our analyst and a fashion guru Sean Holley is on the clock for us

tonight. We mentioned the turnover in players, there are only five with

Under 20s experience in this 15, it will be those guys the youngsters

are looking to for leadership. You are right, it is an inexperienced

team and a shortage in the Loch Department.

Expect Byron Hayward, the new head coach, to play with an expansive

style tonight. The two I will be watching tonight are the more

experienced. Nicky Thomas is incredibly flexible for such a big

man which allows him to get into a good scrummage position. There may

be a lack of forward power behind them. Steffan Hughes is the man

behind him and it is a big year for the Scarlets centre as he leads his

team to the Junior Rugby World Cup. Look for him to force the Italians

back inside tonight. The gap is centre partner, Harri Evans of North

Wales. Lots of talent on show tonight.

Anyone you have an ion tonight? A lot of these boys will have played

in the Premiership but you might not have seen them on TV.

We have spoken of Byron Hayward, the coach tonight, he is very much like

Rob Howell, that is the kind of scrum-half he is. And he is a

Pontypridd boy, as well, so that counts. He has been first choice

then this even -- of this season which says something about his

talent at such a young age. Of course, Rhodri Evans, his

predecessor year, is now in the full Welsh squad.

The staff and the management team of Wales have shown they will throw

youngsters and if they have the talent and skill set.

That is the point they will take come if you are young and good

enough, you are in there. It is a long walk from the dressing rooms to

the pitch, the Italians are on their way.

The Welsh team will follow them. Something else Byron Hayward

mentioned which is interesting, Danny Wilson started this weekend

with Under 20s, the youngsters train on Tuesday with this in your squad.

Is that something they will relish or will they be in or? -- with the

senior squad. The older players absolutely despise it, it is a full

on session. It is good experience for the

youngsters. Irony Hayward caught up with Phil Steele a few moments

before we came on air. Finalists at the World Cup in the

summer, a lot of expectation on the team tonight, how will they cope?

We will try to deflect from the expectation on the players and give

them focus on the process and performance. We are not worried too

much about outcomes, don't want to put that pressure on the players. It

is important to concentrate and focus on what we have been working

on for the past few weeks and deliver from that point of view.

Conditions are pretty soggy, will that affect you?

Hopefully not, hopefully it will dry up.

We have to be able to adapt to conditions and opposition, so we

should be very comfortable, I hope. Thanks for your time can enjoy your

first Six Nations as head coach. As you can see, both teams are now

on the pitch. The anthems are about to come up, that is what the Six

Nations are all about. Before that there is a minute's silence, to

tragic deaths in Italian rugby recently. And under 20 Italian

national player tragically died in a car crash last weekend and an

Italian federation board member also passed away this weekend.

The anthems are next, after which we will leave you in the capable hands

of our commentary team, Rob Jones and Gareth Charles.

Mae hen wlad fy nhadau yn annwyl i mi.

Gwlad beirdd a chantorion, enwogion o fri.

Ei gwrol ryfelwyr, gwladgarwyr tra mad.

Tros ryddid gollasant eu gwaed. Gwlad, Gwlad, pleidiol wyf i'm

gwlad. As has already been mentioned a big

turnover for the Welsh Under 20s team this year, five of them did not

play -- did play last season, including Stephan use. Harri Evans

in the centre, as well, Nicky Thomas in prop and James Benjamin.

Italy in a fairly similar position, led from scrum-half by Maicol

Azzolini. The youngest player in their team will not be 19 by

October. And the referee this evening is from

France, Alexandre Ruiz, as are all of your officials. There was a lot

of standing water half an hour ago at Park Eirias, they have done and

remarkable job, the staff, to get the Under 20s Six Nations under way

on time. Thankfully the rain has abated for a

good few hours. Into no man's land. Superbly taken

as well by Federico Ruzza. Just brought down in time by Afon

Bagshaw. The Italians really capitalising on a defensive error by

Wales. It was a defensive error, very poor one.

There is no way you can leave the ball bouncing. It was a well judged

kick, you look to put the ball into land, not into the hand, and that

was a fantastic start for the Italians. Local boy, Afon Bagshaw,

one of two North Wales representatives with a tremendous

last ditch tackle to save whales's blushes in the opening minute.

-- QC Wales's blushes. Ethan Davies making sure the ball is

safe. That was a good kick by Ethan Davies and a good exit in fairness

by the Welsh side. It was a fantastic tackle. He came

across Bagshaw when it looked almost certainly Italians would score in

the first minute after that poor mistake.

A few nerves jangling, I dare say there are a few nerves out there, a

lot of emotion, certainly from the Italians during their anthem. That

emotion is being put to good use as Derrick Appiah drives forward.

Azzolini with a long pass in midfield, charged down by Steffan

Hughes and we gathered safely. Azzolini. Buscema, again the ball is

a real, safely gathered this time by Bagshaw, who is driven back by

Giacomo De Santis. Tom Williams has a look. And the

Italians just told to stay behind the back foot and not encroach.

I guess say you will see a fair bit of kicking this evening, conditions

being what they are. The boys do want to run, but

obviously you have to be pragmatic, as well, on this surface and -- and

in particular. You have to play a simple game.

Conditions are better than they have been all day but it is still

breezy, are bit soggy underfoot. Putting the ball in front is going

to be important for the forwards. Safely taken by James Sheekey. A I

slipped to Scott Matthews, but that was a very heavy tackle on him.

-- might slip to James Sheekey. One thing you are going to get from

the Italians is a lot of passion. You could see it in the anthem, and

when you are coached by one of the great Italian players I think one

thing you are going to get is 100%, every time. There is Alexander

Troncon. A legend of the Italian game. Just ahead of us in the

commentary box. Wales are quite light up front. They have five back

row forwards, basically. Two injuries and a suspension to the

second row have left them short in that department. In this tight area,

Italy may have the edge. A six stone advantage in the scrum. Let's see if

they are like their senior counterparts. They love a scrum.

They have got a penalty in the first one. Gone against Lewis. The tight

head gets the congratulations of his forwards. Yes, it is good to be a

battle. It is wet underfoot. They have got quite an experienced front

row, Wales. But when you have got inexperience in the second row, as

good as they are, it is difficult. Buscema ports Italy in front. -- put

Italy in front. Alongside Rob and much this evening, Gethin Watts, the

National performance manager of Welsh rugby. A big turnover for the

boys this year? There are a lot of new faces. It happens annually.

There is a fair bit of experience in the side. They play regularly in the

Premiership. Afon Bagshaw is a converted scrum-half. He has started

strongly. Territory is going to be very important to keep these

Italians quiet. We will get to know some of these boys better by the end

of the evening. And hopefully we will get to know them a lot better

in the coming years. It is a walkover for Adams! A great

reply by Wales after conceding early points. Superbly done by forwards

and backs. Joshua Adams gets the first try. It was turnover ball by

Tom Williams. He saw the opportunity. Good hands. As soon as

the ball is turned over, you have two make a decision. Do you keep it

tight in the wet conditions? That was not the case. Let's get the ball

wide. Let's use hands. It was a simple run-in and a great try. Great

work in the breakdown by Steffan Hughes. It was. They were queueing

up in the end. Biron will be absolutely delighted by that. --

Byron Hayward. The cake fades in the end. Wales will be well pleased with

that reply. No missed passes. It is using the hands. It is holding

defenders just for that split second to make sure you have space out

wide. Great work. Wales with five back row forwards in

that back five. They will probably want to play more of an open,

expansive game. Will the conditions allow it? At the moment, the ground

is standing up well. As the game goes on, if the weather continues as

it is, you may see more from this Welsh side. On the face of it as

well, a good opportunity for Williams.

Tom Williams and Scott Matthews have been very prominent in the opening

stages. Italy trying to kick -- to keep their shape defensively.

Good turnover by Italy. A chance to break.

There is a knock-on advantage with Tom Williams in possession. The ball

going to the left-hand side. Negri from Western province is the

one exception to the home-grown youngsters for Italy. Again the

outside have going for distance. -- the outside half. He has kept it in.

It was nicely done. He did not knock it on. He was allowed a bit of time

to get the clearance. Nicely done. But they had an opportunity to get

the line-out which would have given them an opportunity to work their

way downfield. It has given Wales possession. It has been good work by

Wales. The breakdown has been impressive. Turnover as well.

The point I was going to make any, Gethin, about the back row, we know

what a massive pack England have got. Hopefully the other boys will

be back by the end of the season? Yes, I think what you will see in

the next bubble of weeks is quite a big turnover of players. There are

about 34 or 35 boys in the squad. We want to take the best players out to

the World Cup in Auckland in the summer. The six Nations period is a

big development. The best players will go to the World Cup. I suppose

that is the thing with the under 20 team. There is a World Cup every

year. Not the four-year cycle we see in the senior game. Every year you

have to see what is available and love them in the six Nations. What

the World Cup does do is it gives invaluable exposure for those

players to play against southern hemisphere teams. It has been a

policy to try and explode -- expose these players. The under 16 is

played two games against Australia before Christmas. It is very

important to play the best, to beat the best, to almost take away that

inferiority complex. There was certainly no inferiority complex

last year. The under 20 team beat the all Blacks.

As always here at Parc Eirias, a couple of quires pre-match. And here

during the match as well. There is always a great family atmosphere to

these occasions. Great tackle by Ferrari on Callum

Lewis. There could be a bit of a mismatch

in midfield. That is what they were trying to exploit. They could see

the forwards out there. They knew there was a penalty coming anyway.

The referee has to talk a little bit more. He told them to release. They

did release but he awarded them the penalty. Some big hits going in.

Some big tackles by the Italians. Just sensing already that Wales look

much sharper. Their kicking game looks better in terms of the

individuals who can kick the ball well. Also, tactically as well, to

kick in the right places. Ethan Davies curled that once safely

around. They extend their lead. They probably deserve it overall. The

better rugby has come from Wales in the early stages.

Great footwork by James Benjamin there.

REFEREE: come here, please. The referee is taking no-nonsense.

REFEREE: it is a good game. Now, slowly. Do you understand? OK?

There has been some good work at the breakdown. They have turned over a

couple of balls, they have gained a penalty or two. They have gone in

quickly on a few occasions, the Italians. That has given them a good

foothold into Welsh territory. A bit of defending for the Welsh

boys to do. They do so successfully. Scott Matthews, is it, on the back

row? That is consistency from the referee, giving the same: He did a

few moments ago. -- the same call.

And for the first time we can go pitch side to Phil Steele, who has

an access all areas pass, I take it. This is an important man, Harry,

give a wave to the camera, Harry. He was the mascot tonight and he

plays for the youngsters at a local rugby club. Since we were last here

at Park Eirias, a stall work of the rugby club suffered a terrible neck

injury a couple of years ago and died in the summer. I am sure we

will all be delighted the mascot came from there. -- stall wart are

the rugby club. And all over him is Michael at silly

me, as he tries to get the ball back. -- Marco Lazzaroni. There was

a bit of latitude in that one. I think Elliot Dee went in hard but

did not quite fall in the proper position to get the ball back.

It is good pace and temple in the drives of the Welsh forwards and in

the Welsh team generally. That is Marco Lazzaroni. One of her four

players from Molly Arno who played against the Dragons in the challenge

this year. -- from Moliano. And two of the others from Moliano are the

two props, Derrick Appiah and Simone Ferrari.

He has moved them across there, probably because of the fitting, but

of the pitch does not seem to be cutting up as badly as I would have

expected. John was saying earlier it is a very sandy surface, so it

trains very well. -- drains. Just a matter of getting

the water off it and letting it settle.

And, hopefully, Rupert will be joining Phil Steele at half-time.

Just the kicking game I mentioned, Wales have a good tactical kicking

game. Byron Hayward, what are you looking to do from the different

areas of the field? You mentioned earlier, Ethan has a very cultured

left foot. Certainly those deep positions, get

the ball long but Horsfield, and give the opportunity for the Welsh

boys to challenge at the line-out. He has kicked the ball long and

well, but not necessarily off the field command that will be something

Byron Hayward will be looking to address at half-time.

Back to the place kicking for Ethan Davies this time and he fades it

nicely inside the far post. Wales lead 11-3.

Mark Taylor, the Wales team manager is with us, the boys are trying to

play some attacking rugby despite the underfoot conditions. They have

probably played a little bit too much early on in the game, put

ourselves under unnecessary pressure, but we are excited.

It is just tempering that a little bit. But there is a good attacking

philosophy there and hopefully we will carry the ball and -- carry the

ball in hand. The Italians like to thrive with the drive rather than

the jive, Dorothy? We were expecting that -- don't have

the? We were expecting that.

Yes, the poet of Phil Steele. Scott Matthews give it his best

shot. A bit of a mix-up, through the legs of Dafydd Howells and picked up

by Samuel Seno. Wales have had to regroup. They have slowed it down to

give themselves every chance to defend.

The short ball to Michieletto. And there is Dee and Benjamin both

involved. Ricardo Michieletto leading the way.

Marco Silva losing a bit of ground, but knocked behind the back foot,

that was Will Boyde. I think the referee got that right,

coming in from the side. Couple of occasions.

That was better than probably more of what we expect from the Italians

in the close-up drives. A couple of times, the passes are sort

laboured, 23 metres behind the gain line, that Wales are rushing up and

the pressure has been excellent by Wales. They have managed to keep

hold of the ball. They need to generate that ball a little

quicker, the Italians, and just keep the front foot. It is all a bit

static, and probably easy for the Welsh to defend.

This is the book of Filippo Buscema, that is the only

opportunity he has had to date. He has brought them back now within one

score. There is a long way to go. There is

Mr Gareth Jenkins with some of the young talent available to him.

Alan Lewis is alongside him, who is in charge of the under 18 's.

We said North Wales has been an important breeding ground for the

Scarlets. That is part of their region. Interestingly talking to

Robert earlier, they have a couple of boys here know from the Ospreys,

some of the blues and the Scarlets. Rupert's team have worked extremely

hard and things have ramped up from 2010. When you look at people like

Harri Evans and Afon Bagshaw, those are examples of people who have

started and come right through the system. George North has come from

North Wales, that is well versed, but Afon Bagshaw and Harri Evans are

an example of the new generation. There are a number of other new

players who are currently involved in under 18s who will be strutting

their stuff this time next year for the Under 20s. And there is Afon

Bagshaw. From Flint rugby club.

He and Harri Evans are both lifeguards in Colwyn Bay and at one

stage this afternoon it looked as though they could have come in very

handy indeed. James Benjamin. Looking to take

Wales away from their online. He looks impressive, doesn't he?

We have seen good footwork and good hands from them, as well. He is a

good ball carrier for seven. He has played a couple of LV games

for the Dragons this year and played a lot more last year but was in the

shadow of Ellis Jenkins. He is very well versed with sevens

in Wales at the moment and he has a bright future. He is a great

footballer and has a fantastic awareness in and around the field.

Sebastian Negri with uptake and steel. -- with a cake and steel.

Good pressure by Wales. They are competing in the line-out, not just

competing in the chicken mackerel but competing once the jumper hits

the deck. They are putting a good at a pressure on them at getting what

they want. No surprise here, I think every

scrum has gone down, more or less. REFEREE: I have a problem with

number one. I have a problem. I think he has a problem!

The referee turned to Bobby North one day and said, captain, I am not

happy with your scrum. Bobby said, you are unhappy with it? ! I was

there, I heard it. Good take by James Sheekey, giving

them every chance to get the drive going. Led by Scott Matthews. Now

slips it to Tom Williams. Inside ball looked forward, and indeed it

was. I think that one work early on.

It is the second time they have tried that move, getting the ball

going wide, trying to commit defenders with a decoy run so there

should be space on the inside. That was well covered by the open side,

to be fair. It was, except the timing of the run

was not great. If a single pass goes a stray or

slightly behind, then the move is off. You have to just keep hold of

possession. It looked as though they actually had a dogleg from the

Italian backs, but the seven got across.

He probably learned from earlier. Joshua Adams went through.

Yet another scrum goes down. The referee is going to allow this one

to come out. I don't quite understand the referee

there. It is better for the game as a spectacle, he has not blown up and

ordered a penalty. One of Italy's great stall works, is

on sport Wales next and Warren Gatland. Wales macro versus Italy

from 2006 on Scrum V classic. Then of course the main event from 2pm

tomorrow afternoon, kick at 2:30pm, available on the BBC from S4 sea and

available on the radio, as well. -- S4C. And a round-up of the

weekend's events on Sunday evening. And we will be in a flown next week

for the second of the Under 20s fixtures. -- Athlone. A lot of good

work by Wales there. It is the moment and the pace, quick

delivery, everyone on the front foot, pace coming onto the ball, and

unfortunately that kick has just gone astray.

Steffan Hughes, just going around having a word with everybody,

telling them to keep things going. That is the try scorer, Joshua

Adams, and a very well worked move, it was. A quick turn of ball and it

could have been one of three in the end.

That is a good off-load in the tackle, actually, as well.

Yes, they have looked quite impressive in patches, Wales.

Considering it is the first time they have come together, they have

not had a huge aid of time, they had some sessions before Christmas and

more recently a week or so before this game. Yes, as we all know,

international preparation is very limited, and that is part and parcel

of the developing of these players, to be able to unite a group of

players that have not played a great deal together.

As I said earlier, it is part and parcel of international rugby. They

have two gelled together and come in many respects, this is part of a

building block the bigger picture. So far they have done well. I would

like to see them build more phases for longer and spend more time in

that Italian 22, or certainly attacking third of the pitch.

Wales have had the better of the opening half. Certainly

territorially. But they have not broken clear yet, by any means. The

pressure coming on the Welsh scrum. Not really a threatening option

behind by Italy. I think the Italians will just be happy to try

to play down in Welsh territory as much as they can. They don't look as

if they offer much of a threat behind. They are big and strong,

powerful front, as you would expect. That is where the threat is going to

come. Great pressure by Wales. Italy left

with no real option but to kick. Afon Bagshaw just looked up to see

what the options work as the ball was arriving. A lack of

concentration. He just lifted his head. He is already looking ahead to

see what is in front of him and the mistake is made. Some great pressure

by Wales as if they are focusing on the first ball carrier and putting

so much pressure on him. It is giving way is a real opportunity to

pressurise at the breakdown. -- Wales. Options available for Italy

here. Some bad language picked up there on

the referee's M. Apologies for that. -- microphone. Ten and 13 directly

behind the scrum. It does not matter anyway. The scrum goes down. It will

be ten to go for goal. It probably was a penalty. I would just like to

see him give some advantage to the Italians. They obviously have

something planned. -- had something planned. You could see Callum Lewis

folding under that pressure. A six stone advantage. If they get it

right, if they technically get it right, it is going to be very

difficult to deal with. They have been penalised on a couple of

occasions but they have come back from that.

Just about crawled over. That will do for Italy. Buscema keeps them in

touch with half-time approaching. You have to keep the ball as tight

as possible. You have got to play territory. If we can get scrum after

scrum, then penalties will come and a win is potentially on the cards.

Tom Williams dancing and weaving his way forward towards the Italian 22.

Good build-up by Wales. Can they finish it off? Within five

metres... Wales can sense the try is on. In the end they go backwards.

They still have possession. Italy under pressure. A couple of

metres short. Tom Williams driven back there. Still Wales Hang onto

the ball and recycle it. Howell 's couldn't hang on to the deep ball.

-- to the ball. Waves have got to learn to be patient. There was a lot

of good work in there. -- Wales. They started to become a little bit

selfish. You cannot force any passes. Just go through the phases.

The longer you keep the ball better chance you have got of finding space

somewhere. That is something they have to learn. A lot of good play.

Very impressed so far with Scott Matthews. His work at the breakdown,

he carries aggressively. And Ben Roach as well looked very like --

lively. Yes, Ben Roach is a good player. He is returning from a

long-standing injury. He is an impressive individual. Both as a

rugby player and as a person. He is athletically very good. You have

seen a lot of that in the way that he carries the ball. You can see he

is very mobile around the field. It is about Wales trying to maintain

possession, maintain pressure. If they can do that, hopefully a score

or two will come. One before half-time would be handy.

Wales exerting pressure at the end of this first half.

A little bit overambitious, Wales. Yes, again, talking about being

impatient. We have seen them make a mistake. I am pretty convinced that

Wales, with the quality we have seen early on, if they keep the ball long

enough, they can win this game comfortably. I think patience has

been said a couple of times tonight. Italy are not committing men to the

breakdown area. If you look across the line, the field is always full.

Patients will be very important. Even taking the ball off nine and

soaking a few more defenders in. Hopefully that will be prevalent in

the second half. The final play of the first half.

Gethin Watts will be leaving us during the intervals. Thank you very

much, Gethin, for the insights. Certainly it has been illuminating.

A good scrum from Wales to finish the half.

Wales have one last attack. Matthew is again offering himself.

Good defending by Italy. Wales taking it to the Italian defence.

A long last passage of play. Wales doing their best to give themselves

a bit of a cushion at half-time. Into double figures as far as the

phases go. Keeping the Italian defence on it. It has gone forward.

And in the end, Wales, way empty-handed from that attack. That

is the story of the half. Plenty of possession for Wales, plenty of time

spent in the Italy half. Just the one tried from Joshua Adams. Italy

still in the hunt. -- one try. After an emotional couple of

anthems, the visitors almost struck first. They did score the first

penalty. Then Wales struck back. Some slick movement in the three

quarters line. They were queueing up to score in the end. It was Josh

Adams who did get over the try line. Davies scoring the converging. The

Italians kept themselves in touch with a few penalties. 11-9 is the

half-time score. Perhaps not reflecting Wales's dominance.

Martin, you and I spoke to Byron Hayward before the start of the game

and he was determined not to allow the conditions to affect the game.

He wanted them to show enterprise and they have done that? Yes, all

credit to them. They have really tried to play. Full credit to them.

Perhaps they are going wide to early rather than trying to go up the

middle. Some great floods in the tackle. They have looked dangerous.

Perhaps they were trying to play a little too much, too early. Sean,

you have had a look at the first try. They are trying to play with

high tempo. I have been particularly impressed by their balance of play.

It showed in the try. It came from a loose Italian cake. -- kick. What I

have noticed with this Welsh team is they are attacking both sides of the

rock. -- ruck. Year outside half kicks it down into Italian territory

and they get a good turnover from that.

We would expect that forward to perhaps truck this up, but no, he is

light on his feet. The group that pulled back to create the width is

now in this part of the field and finished off a lovely try. It is the

kind of thing Jonathan Davies is crying out for all the time, one

more quick pass going forwards. You're keen eyes pointed out it was

the back row that created that try. Yes, always the same. It was great

work from James Benjamin on this corner.

He was first there, great chase. First in and he has taken the ball.

He is a seven by trade. He himself and Scott Matthews have been to the

fore in that first half. He uses his fur work. I want -- I think Sean

Holley alluded to his footwork earlier. Very skilful from James

Benjamin. The backs, we all talk about them,

but they have been pretty slick at times tonight despite the breezy

ball and tough conditions. It is the balance of the attack and the

influence of Byron Hayward. Their pattern of play. Let's take a

look at off the line-out. Great off the top ball. The detail in the

movement of the backs is important, they are all moving together so the

outside half has three options. It is very difficult for our defence at

high speed to defend this, you just want at gaps, have shoulders.

They set the drive, they are looking to create a two against one at the

tail of this drive, but no, then they go wide. Look at the influence

of this player, this interference is just enough to create half a yard

for the winger, Adams. It is his angle, this 45 degrees angle, that

is crucial. That interference is just enough for him to get through

and Wales are on the attack again. The tag of both sides of the try --

ruck is interesting. We would expect both forwards to go around the

corner, but not this team, they go against the grain. This group are

pulling back again, they tried to expose a weakened defence. There is

a nice balance of play and I am looking forward to watching more in

this second half. It is interesting stuff comparing the style of play of

the Under 20s to the senior side, who we know are used to pummelling

the opposition into submission. This site is not the busiest, the

PAC has given away six stone to the Italians, and because of that they

have dinner -- outmanoeuvred them. They are looking to play with width,

you have to play with your strengths.

They are throwing it around, and give them credit, because conditions

are very tough. They certainly are. This is the curtain raiser to the

main event tomorrow, Wales versus Italy as they defend their Six

Nations crown tomorrow in Cardiff, and it is the start of a bumper week

of Welsh sport. Have you ever wondered how Warren

Gatland relaxes away from rugby? Find out next on Sport Wales.

Tomorrow, Colin jumps in the Time Machine for Scrum V classics, where

we find post grand slam Wales in a spot of bother.

Then it is the main event, Wales begin the defence of their Six

Nations crown against Italy in Cardiff on BBC Wales and S4C.

And, on Sunday, we will have all of the post match reaction and opinion.

Next week it is a Ryan Jones's turn to reminisce as we reflect on a

Triple Crown winning performance. Wales have won the Triple Crown! And

next Friday we travel to Athlone were Wales Under 20s continue their

campaign against the men in green. Plenty to look forward to there.

Today is the deadline, the day that the regions gave the union for

confirming to them what competitions they will be playing in next

season. The news I am afraid is that there is no news. Roger Lewis has

said today that he does not recognise that deadline and is not

working to it. We know that the regions said if they did not have a

clear message they would pursue other options, and we know that that

may be pursuing other Welsh competitions. They released a

statement before we came on air, effectively a statement saying,

we're not going to release a statement. They have wished everyone

well this weekend, the Welsh women come Under 20s and the seniors

tomorrow. But they will be releasing a full statement on Monday outlining

their position, and we will wait with bated breath to hear what they

have to say on Monday. For now we will go back to Phil Steele who I

believe is with Rupert Moon. Yes, now general manager of rugby for

ymru -- Cymru. Tell us about this great story.

Yes, Harri Evans from Llandudno started off as a steward, that is

the holistic approach to clear their element.

From there to the pitch and it is fabulous. What will that do from

rugby in this area to have two RGC boys playing?

This is the oldest two members of the academy to be in the Under 20s.

They will be inspiring the young people walking around the field

igniting the flame in the brain and they have a chat is to get on the

field themselves. RGC are doing and well themselves in the Championship,

second behind portrayal. When you spoke to Scrum V last year

you had a five-year plan. We are still on course, we were fortunate

to get out of the Championship, it was a tough level of experience and

we are playing a good level of rugby.

We are learning the right to be in second place. Within five years we

want to be in the Premiership, but we will have to earn that. The crowd

are coming, and it is great to see over 5000 here again tonight. I know

it is your birthday tomorrow, 46, many happy returns.

Give us a prediction? Wales will win, it will be a tough

second half, 25-13. There we are, Rupert Moon, 25 caps for Wales and

that one. Here is the team to take the field

against Italy tomorrow, the backline virtually picks itself. No done

Davies, he switches to outside centre. Jamie Roberts is back after

missing the open ice what test. The big question was picking Rhys

Priestland. Justin to bridge has been selected

on the side ahead of the captain, Sam Warburton, who is on the bench

after recovering from that shoulder injury. -- Justin Tipuric. And we

can now see Toby fallow doe, who now wants to be referred to as his

official name, Tauleta. Just looking at the names on that

list, it is a very powerful side, a fit side.

The advantage we have nearly of the other team in the Six Nations, they

know exact and what they want to do. There are no grey areas, they know

their game plan. They have young, experienced backline because of

injuries and that could have been an eye-opener for them. Warren Gatland

does like Rhys Priestland away, he gets that backline moving.

For me he is fantastic. We have generally got three

international class outside half. Yet been outstanding for the

Ospreys, he probably does bring a different attacking and bench --

dimension, silly as the first to shout tomorrow and has to make the

most of it. Sean Holley, you know Dan Biggar

very well, it has he been hard done by?

He has a little bit, but you always get the feeling that if Rhys

Priestland hit any form Warren Gatland will pick him.

He has been showing some real form so if he plays well tomorrow and

Jonathan Davies comes through his cup game, a big selection dilemma

for next week, who will be in the centre?

We may well be looking at the next Rhys Priestland or Scott Williams,

Wales are back out, the second half is about to get underway, so we will

return to our commentary team, Rob Jones and Gareth Charles.

Thank you very much, Ross. No changes during the interval.

Interesting to see what adjustments the Welsh boys make in this second

half. The statistics are showing in terms of possession and territory,

they are pretty dominant, but still just a 2-point lead.

Will the Italians be able to keep up this rearguard action and sneak

their first ever win against Wales? Wales looking for another win after

their successful campaign last year. Just as happened in the first-half,

the team and that bottom left-hand corner in a great of trouble.

He might have scored. Fantastic pressure, Dafydd Howells initially

on the kick. Then having to make the tackle on Buscema. I am just

wondering whether they got over on the ball, then they managed to get

the ball down. Let's have a look, it depends what

angles we have got. You just have a feeling that, I'm not sure who it

was, it might have been Dafydd Howells coming in there. Here we

are, Dafydd Howells going over the top comedy is on his feet. Does he

get the ball and is it down? It is in a Welsh hand...

Great tackle, and impose Dafydd Howells. -- and in goes. Dafydd

Howells with the head guard on looked to have it.

Is there an arm? Is there a leg? There are all kinds

of questions to be answered. I think the problem here is again

whether we have got the right camera angle.

Great following up from Harri Evans. Fantastic tackle.

That is the pressure on the kick to start with, then Harri Evans, the

local boy. He has got that ball there.

It is just whether he has got that ball down or not.

That leg comes in the way just at the crucial moment. You can see that

downward pressure. how is your French, Rob?

! I could see that coming, because he shook his head. I don't

understand a word of French. It just wasn't clear enough.

But you want to start the second half well. And Wales have done that.

Great chance here now. At least when Nigel Owens is the

referee and Tim Hayes is the TMO, we have a fighting chance of

understanding what they are seeing in Welsh!

Yes, I will have to pick up a little bit more French in the coming years.

I did have an all level in French, maybe that would have helped.

A great position for Wales in the second half. Nobody in position on

the blindside. They have to get the ball out and they do. James

Benjamin. Tom Williams arrives, to Elliot Dee.

Effective ball carrying by the Route 14 Scott Matthews. -- group

one, four Scott Matthews. Stephan Howells still on his feet,

he has done extremely well as the Welsh skipper.

They did not need the inside ball that time, that is where the

defenders were waiting. They did well to hold on to that.

Tom Williams has bought himself. Benjamin ready to take over as a

scrum-half. They just need to keep composed.

They are not committing a huge number, if any, to the breakdown. It

is only the tackle, really. That is a great hit by Derrick Appiah.

But Wales recycle the ball again. Dafydd Howells. Great strength from

Howells, almost got there a second time. Benjamin stopped just short of

the line. Williams picks out Callum Lewis!

So tantalisingly close. It all comes to nothing for Wales.

Well, you can talk about... I think Wales -- Wales have to take into

account they have to be a little bit tight. They have to get to the ruck

little bit more, but credit to a fantastic Italian defence. It was

not just the big hits, but the discipline, communication, their

ability to plug all the gaps and Wade and close in.

-- out wide. Once Callum Lewis is isolated of the

managed to commit more players because the opportunity is there,

great work. Did he have it in him to stretch out

for the line? He held on a bit too long.

Wales need to learn from that. Just over 3000 at Parc Eirias. Not a

sell-out but it has been a horrible day. You work so hard to win

possession. To get the ball downfield. And then you give it all

away with a poor kick. The forwards have worked their socks off

defensively there. Now they find themselves under pressure because of

a loose cake by Buscema. -- kick. A slightly different approach from

Wales. Keeping it little tighter. Can they finish it this time? There

has been great scrambled defence by Italy on a number of occasions. He

has carried well, hasn't he? They have dropped it. Again at the

crucial moment, William Boyd could not hang on. Constant pressure from

Wales. Great defensive work by the Italians. If they can keep

frustrating Wales, they have a chance. I am just wondering if Wales

can learn from not committing huge numbers to the breakdown. Owen

Williams has joined us. It would be quicker getting home tonight and it

will -- then it is walking from the dressing room to the commentary box!

Gareth Jenkins, former Wales coach and former Welsh international here.

This is your raison d'etre to night. Her impressive has this Prime

Minister's Questions It is always a great pleasure to come to North

Wales for these games. It is the third year now. It is a real

international occasion. Congratulations to North Wales. This

is a very important building block really for a future international

rugby players. 80% of the current national team would have come

through this programme. Every year it is always about the new talent

and who the next generation of future international players and

regional players will be. The system is working? Absolutely. It is a huge

success. We will break off a minute while Wales attack.

A chance to clear the decks again for Italy. So far it has been all

Welsh pressure in the second half. Buscema living dangerously. Running

into trouble. Support was on hand. They cannot get away from their own

try line. Azzolini weights. -- awaits.

It is relentless pressure from Wales. What they need below is an

end product. -- what they need though. Changing the angle of

attack, bringing in Ben Roach. They feel that they have to give sooner

or later. A few metres short. A little bit of respite for Italy

again. Yes, it is time and time again, isn't it? They are keeping

their defensive discipline. When they are under huge pressure, they

keep turning ball over. Good work by Appiah. Driving over.

As Buscema put the ball out of play. We can rejoin Phil and Gareth

Jenkins. The other interesting thing about

this area of North Wales is there is a lot of talent here. This is where

you found George North? Yes, he came from North Wales as a 16-year-old.

We watched him play under 16. He was an outstanding talent. That talent

has emerged into a world-class star and he is only a young man now.

Anybody you have been impressed with out there tonight? Yes, there are

always talented individuals. But more importantly, it is seeing these

boys exposed to International Rugby Board this is different than the

week in, week out these boys belong to. Most of these boys will be

academy players. They will have been identified as potential regional

players. There are a couple tonight who are not involved in academies.

The good thing about this level of rugby is there is late entry. A

quick prediction for tomorrow? I would have thought that Wales will

be pretty comfortable tomorrow. I cannot see Italy doing anything

except being competitive. They have a problem at halfback and we look

strong across the selection. Thank you, Gareth. Former Welsh

international. Thanks, Phil. The pressure is still

coming on from the men in red. There are still some thumping tackles from

the boys in blue. There are. Appiah has made half a dozen huge tackles

throughout this game. It is good to see Dafydd Howells getting involved.

We did not see him in the first half. He is looking for the ball.

Sorry, that was not Appiah. That was one of the second rows. A big hit.

Elliot Dee is leaving the field. Scott often comes on to replace him.

-- Scott Otten. The Welsh boys need a little bit of composure. You need

the halfbacks to slow the ball down, bring the forwards together and make

the hard yards. Ten minutes of constant pressure from Wales has not

yielded a try but it has resulted in the first three points of the second

half from Davies. I think Wales should pick and drive through the

ruck and the Kell Brook. Everything is moving probably two passes away.

They have got numbers out there. -- bowl.

Michieletto is leaving. Scalvi is on for the final half hour.

You would have thought that this will take its toll on Italy by the

end. Yes, you would have thought so. They have worked so hard.

That would be disappointing for Italy, having got themselves into

the Welsh 22 for the first time in the second half. They immediately

lose possession. Italy happy to scramble the ball off

the park. They did well to get back there. There was a lot of space. It

was a good little kick from Steffan Hughes in the first place. Good

pressure from Tom Williams. He made the kick and the clearance so

difficult for the Italian outside half.

Wales get the drive on. A good shape to that driving line-out. Scott

Matthews leaves it to Williams. In the end, the tackle.

Slow ball this time. They will need the forwards to take it up. Ready to

do some more hard graft and carrying.

Wales camped in Italian territory. Again, so close.

Tom Williams dives underneath! In the end, the tribe had to come. It

is James Benjamin, the number eight, who get it eventually. Great

pressure from Wales. James Benjamin, just reward for all of the Welsh

pressure. Elliot Dee, Scott Matthews, James Benjamin and Tom

Williams have been very sharp. Constantly crossing the gain line.

Carrying well. Good football amongst the four of them. One of them

deserved a score. The defenders were focusing on the ball. Then they

moved away and looked at the referee. At that instant, Benjamin

dives over. A conversion from Ethan Davies. The scoreboard has a better

look about it now. They just went a little bit closer to the fringes.

Tom Williams made the initial break. They have been patient. No rush.

Kept the ball. A clinical finish from Benjamin. He has been very

impressive. OK, an element of luck there, but which was he has got

football in him. He has got footwork, he is

powerful, great handling skills, as well.

Italy, ringing the changes. They see the game slowly slipping

away from them. There is no holding back on the

tackles from either side and he has stayed down. -- Di Giulio has stayed

down. Not too many options behind for

Italy, and that is a poor kick in the end. That was poor. All from the

pressure of the Welsh defence, who had great line speed.

They have just forced Italy back with nowhere to go. It forced them

into a poor kick. Really impressed with the defence tonight, plenty of

energy, they are all working together and have defended really

well. The stats are incredible, even more

than we thought, 78% possession and 90% territory in the 16 minutes that

we have had. Great vision, OK, not where he

wanted it to go, but it ended up in the hands of a Welsh player. It is

just having the confidence and the footballing skill to do it. Yes,

took the ball from under Tom Williams's knows, really, but took

the responsibility, even though he was so close to a lot of defenders

around him, but he knew where the try line was.

Dragons have good prospects in that back row.

Defensively, very explosive. We have spoken about Benjamin might, but

you'd prospects for the Dragons. That pass was like Williams. Or like

Justin Tipuric! Just losing possession a little bit

too easily, and disappointed with themselves.

Wales look a bit more confident now. I think there were frustrated early

on in this half. It is always difficult when the

Italians are more than two scores than commit deflates you a little

bit. You look at the scoreboard with 20 minutes to go and know you are a

long way behind. They will be deflated and Wales need to keep the

food on them. Wales have obviously dominated

territory and possession, but they have looked so much more dangerous.

Italy come on the occasions they have had possession, have not looked

threatening at all. There is a bit of a reflection of

the main team in it, really, very strong up front, very organised

defensively. Exactly, tomorrow I think they will be competitive for a

long time in the game and Wales have to be patient.

You would see the quality should come through, particularly on both

backplanes. -- bike lines. I think it will be quite a

comfortable win tomorrow, to be honest. Wales have not been together

for a while, but... We always start slow for some reason, I don't know

why. But, yes, I think it is a settled

team. As I have learned a few times in the

past, never underestimate bitterly. -- Italy.

And a chance for Byron Hayward to have a look at more squad players in

a second. A couple more replacements, Connor

Lloyd and Scott Andrews. I have been impressed with the Welsh

scrum, even though there are giving away six stone they are holding

their own. They are a big side, but the Welsh

pack has done really well. Tom Williams has been very lively, very

sharp. Yes, Robert Jones- esque.

A nice little show and go from Sebastian Negri.

Buscema looking for a bit of space for his winger, but just a little

bit too close to the touchline. Maybe they would be better keeping

the ball in play, the Welsh my notes have gone reasonably well.

-- Welsh line-outs. The replacements combining, Scott to

the floor, and Scott Andrews is the line-out provider. And there is

another one, the scrum-half, Connor Lloyd. -- Scott Orden is the floor.

-- Scott Otten with the throw. I did not get cramp at that age, did

you? It is interesting talking to get in

-- Gethin Jenkins about the Under 20s, it is all about giving young

players an opportunity and developing a squad for the World

Cup, and that is very much what Byron Hayward will be doing this

year. Markey, a lot of substitute coming

on now, but this is probably something you have to do every year?

This is a very intense season for the boys.

It is vitally important for us to develop strength and depth in these

positions, particularly in the World Cup with a four-day tournament.

It is vital we have boys ready to come off the rack to play rugby.

These initial two or three games you will see a lot of the rotation of

the team to make sure you can go to that intense competition of the

World Cup. Are you pleased so far? Yes, a lot better in the second

half, a lot of possession and some points on the board.

I should tell you before we can't back to you that Sam Warburton has

tweeted Martyn Williams's second name. He now has 150,000 followers.

There is just no respect from these youngsters.

REFEREE: Number seven, come down please.

That was that line speed again from the Welsh team, some fantastic work.

As we said at half-time, there is a contrast between what we see in the

Under 20s and what we know Wales will play tomorrow and for the rest

of the tournament, as they have done for the last two years. The

attacking has been different, defence has been very similar,

getting off the line very quickly. It is interesting to see the

contrast. Different sorts of players in both teams, so Byron Hayward is

obviously playing what he thinks are their strengths.

Will Boyde being replaced by Leigh Griffiths. -- Ollie Griffiths.

Nice little half break and flick out from Ethan Davies. Ollie Griffiths

straight in on the action and making quite an impression. Also managing

to stay on the right side of the whitewash.

Steffan Hughes has been leading by example in the second half, the

Welsh skipper. Taking the game to Italy and supporting well. Harri

Evans showing up well, as well. Matthews has an extremely well to

create something out of nothing for Ben Roach.

Years of his feet. I don't think he was supporting his

own body weight there, but he has got away with it. He has got that

wrong, he was on his knees, basically.

REFEREE: You are not releasing the ball, free kick.

Thank you, number four. I didn't think Ben Roach thought

there was a problem, the same as we thought.

Perhaps we are doing him an injustice. You can see his legs off

the ground. Initially he is OK. He is floating in midair!

A big round of applause for Ethan Davies.

He has played well, mixed it up pretty well tonight. A good kicking

game. Again, the Dragons have a bit of

depth coming through, haven't the? In a year or so, these guys could

well feature regularly at the Dragons.

And it is changes all-round, because the new scrum-half has come on,

which means the previous one has gone to fullback, it was the winger

who came off. Simone Parisotto's first free kick easily fielded by

Steffan Hughes. Straight out. He was not happy with that.

Just going through a little quiet period at the moment for Wales, but

they have done the hard work. They have really upped the tempo in that

third quarter and got the reward, which has given them the breathing

space. With all the changes, as well, it is bound to disrupt the

patterns. It is important to give these boys gametime, as well. Great

tackle again by Scott Matthews. That one was a real hospital pass

for Lazzaroni. Really impressive.

The pressure they are putting on. That is 40 metres they have sent

them back now. It is the first ball receiver, the

target him and run hard, quickly, pressurising. They were all in

there. Scott Matthews, scored the chop tackle.

He is not going anywhere here. It was interesting talking to Rhys

Priestland earlier in the week when the Under 20s were training in the

barn one-day, a player wandered in and this they said, wait until

tomorrow when we are training with you. I used to love those sessions,

the 20-year-old is full of enthusiasm on Tuesday morning.

It is invaluable for the preparation, but as you get

older... It is invaluable preparation for these guys, as well,

what an opportunity. Well, the tacklers have been reining

in on both sides, there is no letup, to be fair.

It is not good enough any more to make a tackle. It is all about

winning that game, it is so physical. You take your hat off to

these guys for full on commitment. In my days it was use the momentum

of the ball carrier to get him to the deck.

Get your arms to his legs and allow him to fall. As long as you went to

ground, most people were happy, but now it is all about the game line.

The impacts in the tackle, these big men can it really is so physical

these days. I am glad we are up now Rob. I have

been up here a long time! That was a very good Welsh scrum.

The scrum coach will be very happy tonight. Technically, very strong.

They will probably get stronger as well. They have got some second rows

to come back. They will be given an opportunity. The aggressive nature

both ball carrying and defensively has been fantastic. They have set

down a marker tonight. They have. Luke Price pushes the ball wide. You

do not see that very often. These guys spend a lot of time on the

training field. Give him a little bit of an excuse, the wind has

picked up. It would be nice to score a few more tries.

I would like to see them go to the corner now. Good decision.

I think that sums up what Martin just said, the wind picking. --

picking up. It looks as if it is blustering.

You cannot use the wind if you had -- if you haven't got any ball.

Benjamin Leung, almost tipping the scales at 20 stone. Wales have used

all of their replacements. The biggest cheer of the night for Harri

Evans, the local boy. He has been very good. Very direct. Constantly

breaking tackles. He has looked sharp. He has been impressive. Mark

Taylor spoke about him beforehand and thought that he had a bright

future. On the evidence of what we have seen tonight, I think he is

right. Both local boys. Afon Bagshaw has been strong as well. It is great

to see some local players coming through again. A half decent player

in his day, Mark Taylor. Yes, he was all right!

That would be frustrating for Byron Hayward. They have got to get the

set pieces right in key areas. Eventually Italy lose possession.

They go back to the initial not gone which will give them the scrum.

While there is a break in play, let's hear some views from Sean

Holley. Yes, lots of good performances

tonight from Elliot Dee in particular. And Tom Williams. It is

nice to see a young Welsh nine chasing things down. When he has had

a chance, he has had a little run. He set up a second try for Wales.

Robert Jones, what is your decision on the man of the match? Yes, Tom

Williams has certainly been in the mix. His service has been good. But

my man of the match is number seven, Scott Matthews. He probably just

pips James Benjamin. His work at the breakdown, his ability to cross the

gain line. He has been very impressive. We have seen him make

the tackles, take people down straightaway, do not give them

momentum. And he gets just a recognition from

the crowd for his efforts. The Cross flanker. Five tries in 15

games for his club. It has been an excellent defensive

effort from Wales as well. 30-23 a couple of years ago was the

closest that Italy have got to Wales. Scott Matthews was in there.

But you have got to listen to the referee. He did say hands. You have

got to get away. You have got to keep your discipline. He has been

fantastic at the breakdown. He is leading at the defensive work.

Putting huge pressure on ten will stop --. That was so disappointing

from an Italian point of view. They have had precious little opportunity

and that one was wasted. Phil... Yes, a couple of regions in action

tonight. Blues have beaten Scarlets. And the ospreys are trailing 36, 27

to sail. With due respect to Martin Elwyn, I did not give Rupert Moon

his full credit. His full name is Rupert Selwyn Barker moan. -- moon.

Well, well, well. Exactly the same place it ends up. Alexander Troncon

has his head in his hands. It must be hugely frustrating. There he is.

Not a happy chappie. It is the little things. You cannot fault the

effort. With the amount of ball that Wales have had, you would have

expected them to win by 40 or 50 points. And they probably would have

done if it wasn't for the Italian defensive effort.

The ball probably travelled forward because of the momentum. It was

marginal. It is all about the hands these days. Which position at the

hands in? I would love to have seen Dafydd Howells have some more ball.

He does look very sharp. He is light on his feet but he is strong as

well. Hopefully we will see more of him as this tournament goes on. The

laws of physics baffle me on that one as well.

It will be a long old journey back to Cardiff tonight. It will be an

even longer journey home for Alexander Troncon. There has been a

lot of fight from this Italian team but not enough quality in the end.

The Welsh boys have had plenty of both. They have had to work hard for

their victory. They have had to stick at it, the first out in

particular. There was a lot of attacking intent, a lot of good

approach work with very little end result. But they have taken their

chances. And the one chance in the second half, James Benjamin, to add

to the early try of Joshua Adams. That will see them home. The final

play of the game now. And Italy, as they have been from most of the

game, certainly most of the second half, in their own territory. They

will have two run it and try to salvage something from their visit

to Parc Eirias. They want to go for a scrum. I said they were quite

powerful in the scrum. They are enjoying themselves! It is good to

see. So will the belts Management. -- the Welsh management.

Ireland under 20 have beaten the Scots enough alone. That is where

Wales have to go next week. That will be some contest. Ireland always

strong at this level. Wales looking to end with a third

try. Still keeping ball. Still thumping away at this Italian

defence. They would love the local boy, Bagshaw, to get on the

scoresheet. He is doing his best. Dafydd Howells crosses over! And

Wales, right at the very end, do get a third try. That is the icing on

the cake. Dafydd Howells makes it an emphatic start for Wales. Fantastic

work. Right at the death. Still more than prepared to keep the ball

alive. He has just taken it away from the

touchline and uses his strength to get across. Certainly the second

party has been far more involved and looks dangerous. Great passing

fairness from Luke Price. It put him into a bit of space. From start to

finish, Wales have worked their socks off. Great fitness, great

power, great pace, good temple in their game, and Byron Hayward

overall I think we'll be delighted with what he has seen tonight. -- I

think will be delighted. Luke Price, from the right-hand side

touchline. To round off the evening for Wales.

Has he drawn it in the enough? Not quite. Just outside, but that

doesn't matter, that does not take any of the gloss off of the Welsh

performance, and the scoreline come eventually, a reflection of the way

the game had gone for Wales. They dominated throughout and eventually

wore down a very determined Italian defence. They got three tries to

nil, did not concede a single point in the second half and after coming

so close to glory last year and in the World Championship, the Welsh

Under 20s have got this year's Six Nations campaign off to an excellent

start. Byron Hayward and his team could not

have asked much more than that. Not too much offered in terms of attack

from Italy, but certainly they gave it all in defence and Wales had to

keep them calm and composed and that is what they did. And eventually

their class told and Steffan Hughes will lead off a victorious Welsh

team. That is an excellent start to the Six Nations for them. Wales

Under 20s have beaten their Italian counterparts by 26 points-9.

In the end, three tries in all, Joshua Adams crossing the first half

after some slick backplate from his three quarters. Then James Benjamin

capping a fine individual performance with a try of his own

just after half-time. Then Dafydd Howells, the Wales cap, putting a

gloss on the stalling with this third try deep in injury time, 26-9

the final score here at Eirias Park. We can go straight down to Phil

Steele with the captain. Steffan Hughes, many congratulations on the

win, your first as captain. How pleasing was it? Yes, it was

very pleasing. There were a lot of things we worked

on in the week that we managed to get into the game and is great to

get off to a good start. I am proud of the effort the boys made. We have

some work to do by next week but I am really pleased. You are now one

of the old heads in the side, how pleased were you the youngsters?

They were fantastic, there is a great group of youngsters there and

they showed what they can do, and hopefully we can make it further

into the tournament. It will be a bit different next week

in Athlone. Really excited to go out next week.

I am sure your parent club is very proud of you, well done.

And here is the man of the match, Scott.

Italy were quite a tough nut to crack in the first half. We knew

they were going to be physical as the first half was really tough.

We knew it was good to be hard, the second half we knew we would do

well. Add more of the same next week needed against Ireland?

I hope so. Well done, great performance.

Have you ever wondered how Warren Gatland relaxes away from rugby?

Find out next on Sport Wales. And Italy's talisman reveals all ahead

of the big match. Tomorrow, Colin jumps into the Time

Machine for Scrum V classics, where we find post grand slam Wales in a

spot of bother. Then it is the main event - Wales

begin their defence on their Six Nations crown against Italy in

Cardiff on BBC Wales and S4C. He has had a shocker, hasn't he?

And on Sunday we will have all of the post-match reaction and opinion.

Next week it is Ryan Jones's turn to reminisce as we reflect on a Triple

Crown winning performance. And then next Friday week travelled

to Athlone, where Wales Under 20s continue their Six Nations campaign

against the men in green. Steffan Hughes and the gap is

there! So much to look forward to in the

next week on BBC television, and back to tonight's game, Steffan

Hughes very satisfied. Perhaps the scoreline did not reflect Wales's

superiority but that is job done, isn't it to my two yes, they tried

to play rugby, very impressed with the back row, very dynamic and they

thoroughly deserved the win. I was impressed with the defence, as

well, their speed and energy, really solid and stopping Italy from

fleeing. They know there are tougher challenges ahead but you could not

ask for more from them. Sean Holley, it was an impressive back

row performance come efficient in the breakdown and some great

footballers in Scott Matthews and James Benjamin.

Yes, in this team, the back row was good, the front row was good, the

midfield was good, but you just sense in the boiler house they need

physicality upfront, two big second rows to back up the rest of the

team. Let's hope they get some injuries

back in the following weeks. Let's turn our attention to the main event

tomorrow. Nobody seems to be giving Italy a

chance at all. Is there any danger of overconfidence going into this

one? I don't think so. If it was in Rome you would be

concerned, but in Cardiff with a full house, the boys were much be

complacent. They could be the first team ever to

win a third title in a row and that will drive them forward. I think

Warren Gatland has been very clever, as he always is, he has given a few

senior players some remainders this week. I don't think there will be

any complacency at all. Score prediction? I think we will

win by 20 points. It will be tough, similar to

tonight, but I think eventually we will have too much firepower and

cutting edge behind. Very bold. Thanks for your company tonight,

Martyn Williams, that is about all we have time here from North Wales.

Tomorrow all attention will be focused on South Wales, Cardiff

playing host to the main event, Wales versus Italy. Warren Gatland

is going in search of history, after their third consecutive Six Nations

title. It all begins against Italy, the coverage is on BBC One from two

BM, sport Wales is next from us. Good night. -- coverage from two