There were plenty of Blue and Blacks in international action over the weekend as Wales under-20 kicked off their summer series in Italy while five Cardiff stars donned the famous Black and White jersey of Barbarians in Gijon.
Scotland Under-20 15 Wales Under-20 45
Mason Grady made his long-awaited return to under-20 rugby as Wales ran in seven tries in their U20 Six Nations Summer Series opener against Scotland.
Oli Andrews capitalised on Joe Hawkins’ crossfield kick to open the scoring in Treviso and Wales doubled their try tally within the opening quarter.
Cardiff prop Rhys Barratt showed his attacking instinct, breaking off the fringe of a ruck and producing a finish that any wing would be proud of.
Scotland replied with their first try of the afternoon on the 20 minute mark, but a swift response from Wales restored a two-score advantage. Flanker Ryan Woodman made the initial bust through the defence before finding former Cardiff flanker Ethan Fackrell in support, who ran in under the sticks.
Blue and Blacks full back Cameron Winnett – who made his URC debut at the same ground – provided the assist for Wales’ bonus point score before the interval, and they picked up where they left off after the break with Andrews dotting down for a second.
Mackenzie Martin came on to make his debut at this level, while Grady impressed from the centre with his powerful carries.
Two late scores from the Scots didn’t dampen the mood for Wales, who crossed later in the game through Morgan Lloyd and Morgan Morse.
Spain 7 Barbarians 26
Scott Andrews played his final game of professional rugby alongside four Blue and Blacks team-mates as Barbarians took on Spain in Gijon.
Andrews, Rey Lee-Lo, Owen Lane, James Botham and Kirby Myhill all continued Cardiff’s tradition with the famous invitational side, following in the footsteps of the likes of Gareth Edwards, Barry John, Jonah Lomu and Dr Jack Matthews amongst many others.
Owen Lane was on the scoresheet as the BaaBaas ran in four tries against their Spanish opposition, linking up with Hadleigh Parkes and Tim Nanai Williams before cutting back inside to provide a clinical finish.