Francis features in Welsh win

by Mark Stevens
13/2/16

Exeter Chiefs prop Tomas Francis help play his part as Wales surged late to score a 27-23 victory over Scotland in a pulsating Six Nations contest at the Principality Stadium.

The tight-head prop won his 10th international cap when he was thrown into the fray for Samson Lee by coach Warren Gatland during the second half of the game in Cardiff.

Down on the scoreboard, the Welsh required tries during the last 15 minutes from centre Jamie Roberts and wing George North to subdue an impressive Scottish performance that saw the visitors lead midway through the second half.

Scrum-half Gareth Davies also touched down for the hosts, courtesy of a magnificent early break, while fly-half Dan Biggar added three conversions and two penalties as Scotland's long wait for a win in Cardiff continued.

Outstanding wing Tommy Seymour and centre Duncan Taylor both scored tries for Scotland, with skipper Greig Laidlaw adding 11 points from the boot and Duncan Weir adding a late conversion, and yet they were ultimately outgunned during a game that saw them lose full-back Stuart Hogg - their sharpest attacking threat - due to a back injury.

Wales, after a draw in Dublin last weekend, will go top of the championship if they beat next opponents France, but Scotland have played two, lost two, following an opening 15-9 defeat at home to England.