Two red cards, six tries, a tense scoreboard, and a relentless downpour set the stage for a dramatic Six Nations opener. Scotland emerged victorious, but only just, in a gripping contest that sets up an exciting rematch in August during the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
Sarah Bonar, Emma Orr, and Leah Bartlett crossed the line for Scotland, while Helen Nelson’s penalty and three conversions proved vital in securing the win. Carys Phillips, Abbie Fleming, and Gwenllian Pyrs were the try-scorers for Wales, who showed resilience throughout but ultimately struggled with defensive lapses, missing 35 tackles. Scotland’s Fran McGhie was a constant attacking threat, using her pace and agility to trouble the Welsh defense.
Under new head coach Sean Lynn, Wales started with confidence, carrying momentum from a recent Premiership victory. Their dominance in the opening minutes led to Phillips scoring within four minutes, with Keira Bevan adding the conversion. However, Scotland responded strongly, with McGhie igniting the home crowd through a thrilling chip and chase. Her attacking prowess was a major factor as Scotland gained a foothold in the game.
Scotland appeared to take the lead when Rachel Malcolm powered over from a lineout drive, but the TMO intervened, ruling the try out due to obstruction. Nonetheless, relentless Scottish pressure finally paid off just before halftime when Bonar crashed over, capitalizing on a move initiated by Rhona Lloyd’s determined burst. Wales’ Georgia Evans received her first yellow card for collapsing a maul in the build-up to the try. By halftime, Scotland had made 498 attacking meters compared to Wales’ 296, highlighting their offensive dominance despite the visitors’ defensive effort.
Early in the second half, Scotland looked to have extended their lead when Evie Gallagher burst through the Welsh defense, leading to Lisa Thomson touching down. However, another TMO review spotted an obstruction, nullifying the try. Undeterred, Scotland struck again as McGhie’s intelligent play at the breakdown led to Orr scoring, extending the lead to 10 points. Wales then suffered another setback when Evans received a second yellow card for a high tackle, resulting in a 20-minute red card.
As the rain intensified, tensions rose further. Gallagher was shown a yellow card for dangerous play at a ruck, which was later upgraded to red following a bunker review. Despite being a player down, Scotland maintained their aggression, and Bartlett’s powerful finish from close range restored their 10-point cushion with 15 minutes to play.
Wales fought back, with Fleming scoring to narrow the deficit, but Scotland’s defense held firm in the final moments. The victory marked Scotland’s second consecutive win over Wales, a feat not achieved in two decades. With a trip to France up next for Scotland and Wales preparing to face England in Cardiff, both teams will take valuable lessons from this fiercely contested battle.
