The 2025 Six Nations match between Wales and Ireland proved to be a thrilling contest, with Ireland narrowly clinching victory with a final score of 27-18 at the Principality Stadium. From the outset, the match set the stage for fierce competition, as Ireland, wearing their new white strip, kicked off, led by Sam Prendergast, who launched the ball high above the excited crowd.
Wales, under the leadership of interim coach Matt Sherratt, aimed to make their mark with a much-changed lineup. The game kicked off with intense energy, and it was Ireland who struck first. A powerful carry from Joe McCarthy laid the foundation for Jack Conan to muscle over from close range, putting the visitors on the board at 7-0 just minutes after the match began. Sam Prendergast calmly converted the try and then added another three points with a penalty kick, extending the Irish lead to 10-0 by the 20-minute mark.
Following this early setback, the Welsh responded with determination. A loose ball from Ireland allowed Gareth Anscombe to narrow the gap, scoring Wales’ first three points with a penalty. Moments later, the pressure mounted on the Irish as they were penalized for offside, enabling Anscombe to slot another kick to bring the score to 10-6. The crowd grew restless, but Wales was just getting started.
The defining moment of the first half came just before halftime. After sustained Welsh pressure and some aggressive forward play, captain Jac Morgan crashed over for a try, and Anscombe's successful conversion lifted Wales to a stunning 13-10 lead at the break.
The second half began with more drama as the referee confirmed Garry Ringrose’s yellow card from the first half had been upgraded to a 20-minute red card for high contact on Ben Thomas. This provided Wales, now capitalizing on their numerical advantage, the opportunity to push their lead. The momentum continued when Tom Rogers touched down after a blistering break the very next minute, extending the Welsh lead to 18-10 early in the second half.
Yet, Ireland's resilience showed through, responding with calm precision and renewed focus. Under immense pressure, they managed to pull one back. Jamison Gibson-Park's cross-field kick found James Lowe, who expertly assisted Jamie Osborne for the try. Though the conversion attempt missed, Ireland leveled the score at 18-18.
With roughly 15 minutes left, Ireland earned a pivotal penalty, which Prendergast successfully converted, regaining the lead at 21-18. Prendergast's composure shone through as he calmly struck from long range again, extending the lead to six points, edging Ireland closer to victory.
Wales continued to fight back, creating tension as they mounted one final assault toward the Irish try line. Ellis Mee came within inches of scoring the decisive try, but the TMO review revealed a knock-on just before the ball was grounded. It was heart-wrenching for Wales, who had shown formidable spirit throughout the match.
With final minutes winding down, Ireland earned another penalty, which Prendergast converted to seal the match at 27-18. Ireland’s victory not only delivered the desired result but also marked their 14th Triple Crown victory, showcasing their strength and depth as they continued their quest for three consecutive Six Nations titles.
Despite the loss, Wales exhibited passion and potential under Sherratt’s guidance. They demonstrated their ability to compete fiercely, stirring hopes for the remaining matches in the tournament. Sherratt remarked post-match, “I loved it, it was a great game.” He noted how the team removed their fear and allowed players to express themselves, bringing renewed vigor to Welsh rugby.
Following the match, interim head coach of Ireland, Simon Easterby, emphasized the challenges faced during the game, which included playing with one man down yet regrouping to secure the win. He acknowledged mistakes but celebrated the team’s resolve to stick together and adapt under pressure.
This match served as yet another reminder of the unpredictable nature of the Six Nations, where fortunes can shift with the tide of the game. Ireland may have walked away with the win, but both teams have set the stage for thrilling encounters ahead, ensuring the drama of the tournament is only just beginning.