Rugby World Cup 2023 | Match Centre | Wales 43:19 Georgia

Wales Clinch Clean Sweep in World Cup Pool Matches

Wales secured a comprehensive victory over Georgia, completing a clean sweep of their World Cup pool matches. Louis Rees-Zammit led the charge with a stunning hat-trick, setting up Warren Gatland’s side for a likely quarter-final showdown with Argentina or Japan.

In a thrilling encounter, Tomas Francis, Liam Williams, and George North also found the try line for Wales. However, Georgia mounted a spirited second-half comeback, with Merab Sharikadze, Vano Karkadze, and Davit Niniashvili scoring tries.

The celebration in Nantes was bittersweet for Wales, as head coach Warren Gatland confirmed Taulupe Faletau’s tournament-ending broken arm. Additionally, Gareth Anscombe and Liam Williams suffered injuries during the match, adding to Wales’ concerns.

After bonus-point wins against Fiji and Portugal and a convincing victory over Australia, Wales secured their spot atop Pool C. In contrast, Georgia, playing for pride, struggled to match the Welsh intensity.

Despite a dramatic pre-match injury to Gareth Anscombe, Wales dominated from the start, with young Sam Costelow impressively filling in at fly-half. Their early pressure paid off when Francis powered over from close range.

Wales continued to apply pressure, and Williams extended their lead after a clever pass from Costelow. Georgia, however, fought back, with Sharikadze breaking through for a try.

As Georgia made halftime substitutions, they showed renewed vigor in the second half, but Wales’ defense held firm. Rees-Zammit’s try from a loose pass put the game further out of reach.

The match featured its share of drama, including yellow cards and contentious decisions. Rees-Zammit’s hat-trick-sealing try added to the excitement.

Wales’ fifth try came through North in the dying moments, securing their perfect pool record and setting their sights on the quarter-finals in Marseille.

Warren Gatland praised his team’s determination, saying, “Even though we weren’t at our best, we got the job done.” The Welsh squad will now prepare for their upcoming knockout stage clash.

Match Summary

Pool C | Wales 43:19 Georgia

Wales Scores:

Georgia Scores:

TRIES Merab Sharikadze (35′), Vano Karkadze (59′), Davit Niniashvili (62′)
CONV Luka Matkava (36′, 60′)

Referee:

Mathieu Raynal

Man of the Match:

Louis Rees-Zammit (Wales)

Highlights

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