Wales Defeats United States in Rugby International
Wales secured a 44-12 victory over the United States in a rugby league international held in Merthyr Tydfil.
Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Other Sports
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Wales dominated the match at The Wren, scoring nine total tries to defeat the United States 44-12. Despite an early lead from the visitors, Wales pulled ahead to lead 22-12 at halftime and shut out the United States in the second half.
Why it matters
The match serves as a key international fixture for both nations as they prepare for future competitions. For Wales, the convincing win builds momentum for upcoming tournaments, while the United States remains focused on long-term development.
Wales scored nine tries during the match, while the United States managed only two. Will Jones led the offensive effort for Wales by scoring three of those tries.
The players
Wales
The national rugby league team represented the country in this international match.
United States
The national rugby league team is currently planning for the 2030 World Cup.
Will Jones
The Welsh player scored three tries during the international match.
Tevita Bryce
The United States player scored a try during the first half.
Esteban Tupuola
The United States player recorded a conversion during the match.
The details
Will Jones completed a hat-trick for Wales, scoring his first try just three minutes into the game. The United States briefly took a 6-4 lead following a try by Tevita Bryce and a conversion by Esteban Tupuola, but they were unable to score after the halftime break.
Timeline
Will Jones scored the opening try in the 3rd minute.
Tevita Bryce scored for the United States in the 9th minute.
Will Jones scored his second try in the 22nd minute.
Will Jones completed his hat-trick in the 39th minute.
The rugby match took place on October 19, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This victory positions Wales for their upcoming challenge against Scotland in the Celtic Cup. Meanwhile, the loss highlights the ongoing efforts of the United States to refine its squad as it prepares for the 2030 World Cup.
Wales successfully scored four tries in the second half, maintaining a total of nine for the game. The United States failed to add to their score after halftime, leaving their final tally at 12 points.
The takeaway
International matches allow teams to test new strategies and evaluate player performances before major tournament cycles. Following this result, Wales looks to carry its scoring form into the Celtic Cup while the United States continues its long-term development.
What happens next
Wales is scheduled to face Scotland in the upcoming Celtic Cup.
Further reading
For more analysis on international competition, visit our Other Sports section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by South Wales Argus.
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