Scarlets fought off a late rally from Vannes to advance in the Challenge Cup, according to a report on Wales Online. The dramatic match saw Scarlets secure a 38-28 bonus point victory over Vannes in Llanelli, propelling them into the knockout stages of the tournament. The Welsh team, led by coach Dwayne Peel, showcased a dominant performance in the first half, highlighted by standout plays from player of the match, Josh Macleod.
Macleod’s outstanding contribution, which included scoring two tries, along with tries from Blair Murray, Tom Rogers, and Marnus Van der Merwe, gave Scarlets a commanding lead. Despite Vannes fighting back with scores from Romaric Camou, Matthieu Uhila, Paul Surano, and Leon Boulier, Scarlets managed to maintain their advantage. Wales wing Blair Murray’s exceptional display on the field reaffirmed his selection in Warren Gatland’s Six Nations squad, as he executed a breathtaking try with remarkable pace and footwork.
As the tension heightened, Vannes faced further challenges when Salesi Rayasi received a yellow card, temporarily reducing them to 14 men. Scarlets capitalized on the situation, with Gareth Davies making a strategic play off an Ioan Lloyd pass to score a try effortlessly. The first half concluded with another spectacular team effort, culminating in Tom Rogers crossing the try line after an impressive display of teamwork, securing a significant lead for Scarlets.
Despite Vannes putting up a valiant fight in the second half and scoring multiple tries, including noteworthy contributions from Camou, Uhila, Surano, and Boulier, Scarlets managed to hold on to their lead. The intense match showcased thrilling moments of attacking brilliance and defensive challenges for both teams. Ultimately, Scarlets’ determined performance throughout the game ensured their progression to the next stage of the Challenge Cup.
The victory for Scarlets marks a significant milestone in their campaign, with fans eagerly awaiting the upcoming knockout rounds. Dwayne Peel and his team can now look forward to the next phase of the tournament with confidence, building on their success in this hard-fought encounter. As they continue their journey in the Challenge Cup, Scarlets will aim to further solidify their position as a formidable contender in the competition. Stay tuned for more thrilling rugby action as the tournament progresses.