Wales and Scotland both won their international matches today with the Welsh overcoming the United States 42-11 while the Scots beat Samoa 31-8. However, neither side could manage a convincing performance against weaker opposition. Following an easy victory over USA and an encouraging performance in defeat to Australia, the Scots were expected to brush aside the Pacific Islanders, who were thrashed by Wales last week. But a combination of poor handling, aimless kicking from hand and a general lack of direction led to the home side struggling to beat their limited opponents. Three second-half tries against the tiring Samoan outfit could not disguise the fact that this was a poor performance by Scotland in comparison to their recent improving efforts.
Wales won't be happy with their performance today as they now face a daunting Test match with South Africa. The Welsh found it difficult against the Samoans last time out and coach Graham Henry was hoping for a much better display against the Americans. But this result was hardly the response he was looking for, with angry fans calling for his head close to the end.
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
