Wales U20s secured a dramatic 24-25 victory over Georgia in their opening match of the Junior World Championship in Tbilisi, despite finishing the game with just 13 players.
Early Dominance and Georgia's Comeback
Richard Whiffin's side started strongly, with Gloucester flanker Caio James powering over under the posts after just five minutes. Scarlets fly-half Carwyn Leggatt-Jones added the conversion. Cardiff wing Rhys Cummings then extended the lead with a try in the left corner after neat footwork.
Georgia responded through Toulon backrow Mikheil Shioshvili, who scored twice before half-time. His first came from a powerful lineout drive, and his second saw him carry Sion Davies and Evan Minto over the line, reducing the deficit to 15-12 at the break.
Second-Half Drama
After the restart, Wales wing Tom Bowen received a yellow card for a high tackle, and Georgia capitalised immediately as prop Gabriel Razmadze scored from another lineout drive. Despite being a man down, Wales fought back. A superb long-range pass from co-captain Steffan Emanuel sent full-back Lewis Edwards over, but the try was disallowed as Edwards lost the ball under pressure.
Moments later, Leggatt-Jones crossed following more impressive work from Emanuel, putting Wales 25-17 ahead with 15 minutes remaining.
Nail-Biting Finish
With five minutes left, Georgia earned a penalty try after a collapse at a maul, resulting in a yellow card for Wales lock Yestyn Cook, who had already been warned. Bowen had earlier received a second yellow card, reducing Wales to 13 men. Georgia pushed for a late winner, and replacement back rower Irakli Kolbaia appeared to have scored, but the try was ruled out as he was held up over the line.
Wales held on to claim a narrow 24-25 victory, leaving the hosts heartbroken after a pulsating encounter. According to the match report, Wales' discipline was tested as they finished with 13 players, but their resilience secured the win.
