by Dylan James
20-year-old Louis Rees-Zammit crossed the line twice after securing his fifth cap for his nation, despite leaving it late, Wales emerged victorious.
The Gloucester winger scored two tries, with the latter being executed in magnificent fashion. Zammit chipped the ball over Stuart Hogg and beat the experienced full-back in a foot race the line, in a score that eventually won the game despite Callum Sheedy’s missed conversion.
Head coach Wayne Pivac was impressed with the winger’s ability on the ball , but insists there is still more for the player to learn, making his finished product quite an exhilarating prospect.
“Certainly with the ball, he was exciting wasn’t he. He took his opportunities very well, played well with the ball in hand.”
“We’ve still got work to do on his game and that’s the exciting thing. He’s going to be a very, very exciting player gong forward for us.”
Skipper Alun Wyn Jones was keen to reiterate how exciting Zammit’s performance was for Wales, and hinted that this is only the beginning for the youngster.
“He’s been playing well for Gloucester in the Prem, heard a lot about him, I’ve seen a lot of highlights and hopefully this is just the tip of the iceberg for him.”
“I don’t want to heap the pressure, or heap the praise on him. I want him to continue along a similar vein as he has and he works hard.”
The Welsh back line performed well, with Owen Watkin putting in a solid defensive performance. Alun Wyn has reiterated the importance of the backs in mentoring Zammit.
“I think it’s credit to the environment and some of the backfield players that have been helping him along as well.”
In two week’s time Wales come up against England, in what will be a pivotal game for Pivac’s squad. Wales will have the opportunity to secure the Triple Crown when they welcome England to the Principality Stadium, and there are plenty of options on the wing.
After Zammit’s performance today, he will no doubt be in with a shout of a start. However, George North will be back in contention after recovering from a foot injury, but whether he starts at centre or wing will come down to Pivac’s preference.
Josh Adams is available for selection given he has served his suspension, after violating Covid-19 guidelines. There is no doubt the World Cup top try-scorer will be chomping at the bit to get involved again, and has a special place in Welsh hearts after scoring the winning try against England in 2019.
Liam Williams returned to the side today, and with such impressive ability and status as a British and Irish Lion, you would imagine he believes he should be involved. However, after Leigh Halfpenny failed his head injury assessment, Williams could start at 15 against Eddie Jones’ men.
After today’s exploits however, Zammit will be confident he can make an impact against England if he starts the game.
England travel to Cardiff to take on Wales on February 27th, with kick off at 16:45.
