Autumn Nations: Wales Player Grades

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Post on Nov 18, 2024

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Autumn Nations Series: Wales Player Grades – A Mixed Bag of Performances

Wales’ Autumn Nations Series concluded with a mixed bag of results, leaving fans with a feeling of both promise and frustration. While flashes of brilliance punctuated their campaign, inconsistencies plagued their performances, reflecting in the varied individual displays. Let's delve into the player-by-player grades, acknowledging the subjective nature of such assessments:

Forwards:

• Adam Beard (8/10): A consistent performer throughout the series. Beard's lineout prowess was crucial, his tackling ferocious, and his carrying powerful. A true leader on the field.

• Will Rowlands (7/10): Showed glimpses of his immense talent, particularly in the lineout and at the breakdown. However, consistency remained a slight issue. Needs to build on these strong performances.

• Taulupe Faletau (7.5/10): The veteran showed his class, particularly in the breakdown and carrying the ball. His experience and leadership were invaluable, even if his game isn't quite what it once was. A valuable asset for Wales.

• Dan Lydiate (6.5/10): Returned to the squad with typical grit and determination. His tackling was impactful, though his mobility might be hindering him at this stage of his career.

• Rhys Carre (6/10): Showed promise in the scrum but needs to develop his carrying game. Inconsistency hindered his overall impact.

• Tomas Francis (6.5/10): Solid scrummaging, but lacks the dynamism to significantly impact the wider game. Remains a reliable presence in the front row.

• Ken Owens (7/10): A dependable hooker who provides a solid platform for Wales' attacks. His experience and leadership were crucial to the team's morale.

• Ellis Jenkins (7/10): A workhorse in the back row, providing valuable turnovers and carries. His defensive contributions were excellent.

• Justin Tipuric (6/10): A more subdued performance than expected from the usually influential openside. Still contributed in the breakdown, but his overall impact was less noticeable.

Backs:

• Gareth Anscombe (7.5/10): Showed composure and accuracy at fly-half, directing the backs with considerable experience. His goal-kicking was also a key factor in several games.

• Owen Watkin (7/10): A solid performer in midfield, offering strong defence and some insightful attacking plays.

• Nick Tompkins (6.5/10): Added a physical edge to the midfield but needs to further develop his attacking game.

• Josh Adams (8/10): A standout performer, showcasing electric pace and finishing ability. His try-scoring prowess was crucial for Wales' attacking threat.

• Louis Rees-Zammit (7.5/10): A constant threat on the wing, displaying impressive pace and skill. His finishing, however, could be improved.

• Liam Williams (7/10): Showed his experience and defensive ability at fullback, though he lacked the offensive dynamism seen in other matches.

• Rio Dyer (6.5/10): Showed flashes of brilliance with his pace, but needs more consistency to cement his place in the starting XV.

Overall:

Wales showed glimpses of their potential but ultimately fell short of consistent excellence. The forwards provided a strong platform in certain matches, while the backs showed moments of brilliance but lacked overall cohesion. Several players demonstrated their talent and commitment, but overall consistency needs to improve for Wales to reach their full potential. The coaching staff has a clear task ahead in solidifying team strategy and ensuring consistent individual performances across all positions. The upcoming Six Nations will be a crucial test for this Welsh team.