Did Tandy Miss Wales' Winning Kick?

Wales clinched a thrilling 24-23 victory over Japan thanks to a last-minute penalty from Jarrod Evans, marking a significant moment for the team and its head coach Steve Tandy. This win not only ended a 10-Test losing streak at home but also showcased Evans' remarkable composure under pressure, as he stepped up in the dying seconds to secure the win for Wales.

Last updated: 22 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The dramatic victory for Wales over Japan provides a much-needed boost ahead of their upcoming match against New Zealand. Head coach Steve Tandy expressed his relief and pride in the team's performance, particularly highlighting Evans' composure in a high-pressure situation. As Wales gears up for a tough challenge against the All Blacks, they aim to build on this momentum, focusing on improving their overall performance and capitalising on the confidence gained from this win.

Key takeaways

• Jarrod Evans kicked the match-winning penalty for Wales in the final moments.
• Wales snapped a 10-match losing streak at home with this victory.
• Japan's head coach, Eddie Jones, expressed frustration at losing in the final minute.

Timeline: how we got here

The match on 22 November 2023 was pivotal for Wales as they sought to regain their form after a challenging period. Key milestones leading up to this match include:

• October 2023: Wales faced a series of defeats, raising questions about their performance and strategy.
• November 2023: The team prepared for the Autumn Nations Series, with a focus on regaining momentum.
• 22 November 2023: The match against Japan, culminating in a narrow victory thanks to Evans' late penalty.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The standout moment of the week was Jarrod Evans' late penalty that secured victory for Wales. This game was particularly significant as it marked Tandy's first win as head coach, giving the team renewed hope and momentum as they prepare for their next challenge against New Zealand.

What was already established

Prior to this match, Wales had been struggling with form, suffering ten consecutive losses at home. This result is a crucial turning point for the team, indicating that they can perform under pressure and find ways to win even in challenging circumstances.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

This victory may uplift the spirits of Welsh rugby fans and unite communities, as sporting success often brings a sense of pride and joy. The match's excitement provides a distraction from daily life and encourages local engagement through viewership and attendance at future games.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses, particularly those connected to hospitality and tourism, may benefit from increased attendance at future matches. The success of the Welsh team could boost local economies, as fans gather to celebrate and support their team.

Policy and regulation

The Rugby Football Union and Welsh Rugby Union will likely evaluate the implications of this match regarding player performance and development. Success in international fixtures can influence funding and support for grassroots rugby initiatives across Wales.

Numbers that matter

• 24 points: Total points scored by Wales against Japan.
• 23 points: Points scored by Japan, showcasing a closely contested match.
• 10: The number of consecutive home losses Wales had before this victory.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Test Match: An international match played between two national teams, recognised by the governing body of the sport.
• Autumn Nations Series: An annual rugby competition featuring national teams from the Northern Hemisphere, typically held in November.
• Fly-half: A key position in rugby, responsible for directing the attack and often acting as the primary kicker.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Wales will focus on building on this victory as they prepare for their next match against New Zealand. Performance analysis and training will be critical in addressing areas for improvement highlighted during the match against Japan.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the team continues through the Autumn Nations Series and heads towards the World Cup, they will need to maintain momentum and confidence, aiming to solidify their position in the world rankings.

Signals to watch

• Performance metrics from upcoming matches, particularly against top-tier teams like New Zealand.
• Injury updates and player form as the season progresses.
• Public and media sentiment regarding the team's performance and potential changes in management or strategy.

Practical guidance

Do

• Support your local rugby teams and engage with the community around the sport.
• Stay informed about upcoming matches and team news.
• Participate in discussions and events related to rugby, fostering a sense of community.

Don’t

• Dismiss the importance of this victory; it can have lasting effects on team morale.
• Ignore the implications of player performance on future matches.
• Neglect to support grassroots initiatives that help develop future talent.

Checklist

• Check the schedule for upcoming matches and events.
• Engage with local rugby clubs and organisations.
• Monitor player performance and team news for insights into future games.
• Consider attending matches to support the team in person.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While this victory is a positive indicator, there remain uncertainties regarding the team’s consistency and performance against higher-ranked opponents like New Zealand. The pressure of expectations can also impact player performance, and injuries may affect the squad's depth as they progress in the series.

Bottom line

The win against Japan is a significant morale booster for Wales as they look to improve their standing in the rugby world. It reflects the potential of the team under Tandy's management and sets the stage for a challenging encounter with New Zealand. The focus will be on building on this victory and ensuring that they can replicate this performance against tougher opposition.

FAQs

What was the final score of the Wales vs Japan match?

The final score was Wales 24, Japan 23, with Jarrod Evans scoring the winning penalty in the last moments of the game.

Who scored the winning penalty for Wales?

Jarrod Evans scored the winning penalty for Wales, securing the victory against Japan in dramatic fashion.

What is the significance of this win for Wales?

This win is significant as it ends a 10-Test losing streak at home and provides a much-needed confidence boost as they prepare for upcoming matches, particularly against New Zealand.