Wales have three home games in the 2026 Six Nations
It has been some time since Welsh rugby supporters awoke on a Sunday morning after an international match feeling both agony and hope simultaneously. This weekend, following Wales' narrow 26-23 defeat to Scotland in the Six Nations at Cardiff, those mixed emotions were evident.
The agony stems from Wales losing a match they led 20-5 and later 23-12, with Scotland only taking the lead in the final six minutes. The hope arises from Wales delivering their best performance under coach Steve Tandy, demonstrating potential for future success.
Despite this, the defeat marked Wales' 24th loss in 26 internationals since October 2023 and their 14th consecutive Six Nations defeat, extending a record over three years. Wales have dropped to 12th in the world rankings and face the prospect of another Wooden Spoon, with upcoming matches against a revitalized Ireland and Italy. Additionally, ongoing off-field challenges within Welsh rugby persist and are expected to continue in the coming weeks.
Nonetheless, for a few hours on Saturday evening at the Principality Stadium, in a vibrant and intense atmosphere against Scotland, the Welsh team and fans recreated the spirited performances familiar from the past, offering a glimpse of what the future might hold.
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For the first hour of the match, Wales finally generated attacking momentum, with ball carriers consistently breaking the gain line. Front-row players Rhys Carre and captain Dewi Lake delivered arguably their most effective performances for Wales, while Scarlets centre Eddie James contributed significant midfield momentum through a series of powerful runs, potentially marking a breakthrough performance.
Back-row player Aaron Wainwright was outstanding for a second consecutive week, maintaining his excellent form throughout the tournament despite Wales' difficulties. Wainwright has played two matches at number eight and one at blind-side flanker against France. Regardless of position, he has been Wales' most effective player, leading with 22 carries against Scotland, five more than Lake.
The attacking strategy was expertly directed by returning fly-half Sam Costelow, who excelled after replacing Dan Edwards. Costelow's injury in the second half was a disappointing moment for the team and fans alike.
Defence improves with locks tackling Scotland
Exeter lock Dafydd Jenkins was Wales' second youngest captain in history when he led the side in 2024
While Wales' defence was not flawless and the team will require a dedicated specialist coach after the tournament to relieve Tandy of dual responsibilities, there was a marked improvement compared to the 15 tries and 102 points conceded in heavy defeats to England and France.
In Tandy's first six games in charge, Wales conceded 302 points and 42 tries. Adding 26 points and four tries against Scotland represented progress, especially considering the strong Scottish attacks in the second half.
Locks Dafydd Jenkins and Ben Carter, who made his first Six Nations start replacing Adam Beard, led the tackle count with 22 each. Flankers Alex Mann and James Botham contributed by securing some turnover penalties, an area that had been lacking in earlier matches.
Wing Josh Adams was exceptional early on, making a crucial try-saving tackle on Huw Jones and a vital interception. Although Adams' continued selection has faced criticism, his leadership and communication, particularly in defence within an inexperienced backline, were evident.
Were Wales hard done by?
Scotland players celebrate after replacement hooker George Turner scores the bonus-point try against Wales
English referee Matt Carley officiated his 50th international match and became a topic of discussion among Welsh fans on social media, who felt some decisions were unfavorable to Wales.
One contentious moment involved Scotland number eight Matt Fagerson being offside and obstructing Wales replacement prop Archie Griffin during the build-up to George Turner's match-winning try from a driving maul. Some Welsh supporters and former Wales fly-half Jonathan Davies also believed a penalty reversal against Tomos Williams for an illegal ruck clearout was harsh, as Wales could have extended their lead with a penalty kick.
Coach Tandy stated he considered that decision fair and declined to attribute Wales' defeat to refereeing, noting Scotland's dominance in the second half, winning it 21-6.
Still issues to address
A major concern for Wales will be the concentration lapse that led to Darcy Graham's try. This was initiated by a moment of brilliance from Finn Russell, who exploited Wales' defensive lapse during a quick restart. The ball boy or girl efficiently presented the ball for Russell's quick kick-off, performing their role correctly, while Wales' players were unprepared.
Responsibility for the defensive breakdown may lie with James Botham, who failed to secure the ball as it bounced over his shoulder, or new cap Gabriel Hamer-Webb, who was outpaced by Darcy Graham. This moment was pivotal, reducing Wales' lead to four points and allowing Scotland to control the final quarter.
Coach Tandy will also seek greater impact from the bench, as second-half replacements, except prop Nicky Smith, did not maintain the starting side's intensity. In contrast, Scotland's substitutes significantly contributed to their victory.
Discipline remains an issue, with centre Joe Hawkins receiving a yellow card for an early high tackle, marking the 11th sin-binning in seven games under Tandy. However, this represents progress compared to the 16 penalties and four yellow cards conceded three weeks earlier against England.
Wales also need to develop effective strategies to maximize Louis Rees-Zammit's attacking potential following his switch from wing to full-back.
Principality Stadium atmosphere needs to be recreated
The crowd of 57,744 at the Principality Stadium for the France match, the lowest in Cardiff during the Six Nations era, was widely criticized. Six days later, the atmosphere transformed dramatically as 70,000 spectators witnessed an exhilarating match and vibrant support both on and off the field.
This change was partly due to Wales' marked improvement, providing home fans, long deprived of success or expectation, with renewed enthusiasm. Wales have now suffered 11 consecutive Six Nations defeats in Cardiff, with their last home victory against Scotland in February 2022.
Led by the inspirational Dewi Lake, Wales energized the Principality Stadium crowd.
"The support was incredible," said Tandy. "There's lots of questions asked about the crowds, but they were unbelievable. Everyone felt it. The players gave them something to cheer about, but ultimately they got behind the team. It's a snapshot of what we want to be."
The challenge for all involved in Welsh rugby is to replicate this environment in the tournament's final game against Italy on 14 March, which also has an early evening kickoff. The recent weekend's experience must not be a one-off if Wales are to achieve the long-awaited Six Nations success in front of their home fans.
