The Welsh side produced a determined and inspirational performance to beat their neighbours 30-3 in Cardiff and take the Six Nations title from under their noses.
The Millennium stadium was rocking from the opening with an impressive introduction of the teams as they ran out to pyrotechnics and bellowing music creating an electric atmosphere from both fans. Wales went into the game knowing only a victory and winning by 8 points or more would see them lift the trophy. From kick off both sides collided and put their bodies on the line but it was the Welsh side that started on the front foot and handled the occasion the better. The deadlock was broken when Wales received a penalty on the 11th minute that was successfully converted by Lee Halfpenny from the 22 meter mark. Silly mistakes by England saw them giving away the same amount of penalties in the opening 17 minutes as they did in the entire Italy match. From purely penalties the score line was 9-3 at half time and set up the final 40 minutes with excitement.
From the restart Wales started the more aggressive and began on the front foot again with a complete attacking mentality. The 57th minute saw the first try of the game and giving Wales an extended lead to settle any nerves when the ball became loose during a ruck around the halfway and a fierce burst ended with Cuthbert sprinted past Brown and dived over the line. Halfpenny failed with the conversion but still left Wales with a 17-3 lead. A missed penalty by Farrell added to England’s misery of the day and Biggar added salt in the wounds with a drop goal to extend Wales lead. If there was any doubt, they were soon shattered when a clever drop of the shoulder from Tipuric before releasing Cuthbert once again to cross over the line in identical style to make it 27-3. With 10 minutes left of the match another successful penalty from Biggar began the celebrations early leading to a record victory over their rivals.
Interim Wales coach Rob Howley said after the game: “This is better than the Grand Slam last year. We were outstanding. We talked about our discipline and attitude. To do what we have done after that first 30 minutes against Ireland is a great turnaround. They have shown great fortitude and they outclassed England.”
