Welsh Schools Under 16 became the only Welsh side to beat England this season as they got their Under 16/17 Four Nations tournament off to a winning start in Rome.
Ospreys outside half Sam Davies scored 18 points, including a match winning drop goal three minutes from time, as they finally overcome their great rivals 28-27..
Davies, son of Scarlets director of rugby Nigel, scored all the Welsh points in the first half, kicking two penalties early on and scoring a try and conversion just before the break to give his side a 13-10 interval lead.
England were strong in the second period but tries from flanker and man-of-the-match Daniel Thomas and left wing Jake Randell kept the young Dragons in the hunt despite a yellow card for replacement Tomos Owen 15 minutes into the half.
Wales showed good composure in gaining territory and getting themselves into a good position for Davies to slot the decisive goal. The game wasn’t over and England continued to press hard but Simon Davies’ side put in a huge defensive effort to see out the clock and continue their 100% record in this tournament, which they have held for the past two seasons.
Team manager Roy James said, “We are very proud of the boys. They were under a lot of pressure territorially and England scored some good tries.”
In the other match, France beat Italy 48-8. James added, “We are looking forward to playing Italy on Tuesday which is no doubt a game the home side will be targeting, then we play France at the Stadio Flaminio next Saturday.”
