Wales brought an end to their agonising 15-match Six Nations losing streak on Saturday, beating Italy 31-17 in front of a jubilant home crowd at Principality Stadium.
It’s been a long wait for Welsh rugby fans – 1,099 days since their last tournament victory, which also came against the Italians three years ago.
The 70,000 supporters packed into Cardiff were absolutely delirious as their side finally delivered a performance worth celebrating.
It’s a massive moment for Welsh rugby, which has endured a torrid spell at both club and international level over the past three years.
Wales finally ended their horror Six Nations losing streak with a win over Italy
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This win will feel like a huge weight lifted for players and fans alike across the country.
Aaron Wainwright was the star of the first half, crashing over for two tries as Wales completely dominated proceedings.
The number eight powered through several tackles for his opener after 14 minutes, then finished off a driving lineout for his second shortly after.
Captain Dewi Lake got in on the act too, touching down from another lineout maul to give Wales a commanding 21-0 advantage at the break.
Dan Edwards was brilliant with the boot, slotting all three conversions before adding a try of his own just three minutes into the second half.
Wales’ Dan Edwards was faultless with the ball at his feet – and not bad with his hands either
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He then popped over a drop goal to stretch the lead to 31-0 by the 48th minute.
Italy weren’t about to go quietly, though, and mounted a late fightback with three tries of their own.
Substitute hooker Martino di Bartolomeo got the visitors on the board in the 53rd minute after a powerful driving maul, with Tommaso Allan adding a second as the Azzurri attempted a recovery.
Italy might have been beaten but have enjoyed a terrific Six Nations campaign, including a first win over England
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Paolo Garbisi crossed for their third in the dying moments, but it was far too little, too late to spoil the Welsh party.
Despite the win, Wales remain rooted to the bottom of the table, though they did pick up a crucial bonus point.
There’s still a glimmer of hope they might dodge the wooden spoon if England suffer a heavy defeat against France in Paris later tonight.
