Why winning ugly is just as important for Wales

It was far from a classic, but Wales' victory in Tokyo is another chapter in their transformation under Sean Lynn. Wales are currently ranked 11th in the world having dropped to an all-time low of 13th in September Wales set out their intention of returning to the world's top six before the start of their two Test series against Japan. And while their 17-0 victory in Tokyo was far from a vintage showing, Wales have added an ability to win ugly to their armoury – something they are going to need if they are to once again dine at the very top table of women's rugby. It was, of course, inspiring to see some of the Champagne rugby Wales produced in their eight-try mauling of South Africa in Cardiff last month, but grinding out a result and keeping a clean sheet on Japanese soil could prove to be just as important in Wales' transformation under Sean Lynn.

Prior to victory over the Springboks, Wales' previous Test success stretched back to the summer tour of Australia in 2025. It was a long, frustrating and well-documented wait, but this group are finally starting to rack up some momentum, confidence and some all-important Ws. There had been a lot of excitment in the build-up in Japan, with both sides capable of producing an