We use essential cookies and third-party cookies for content.

The National Times - Anscombe issues Fiji warning as Wales bid to end losing streak

Anscombe issues Fiji warning as Wales bid to end losing streak

SPORTS 06.11.2024
Anscombe issues Fiji warning as Wales bid to end losing streak
Anscombe issues Fiji warning as Wales bid to end losing streak / Photo: © AFP

Gareth Anscombe expects Wales to have their work cut out when they look to end a lengthy losing run in their November opener against Fiji this weekend.

Change text size:

Wales have lost nine straight Tests since beating Georgia during last year's World Cup and it will be a record-equalling tenth defeat in a row if Fiji win in Cardiff on Sunday.

The 2023 World Cup in France did see Wales overcome Fiji 32-26 in a Bordeaux epic, but victory was only achieved after Warren Gatland's men made a mammoth 253 tackles.

Fiji, however, fought back from 18 points down and could have won only for unmarked centre Semi Radradra to drop the ball with the Wales try-line at his mercy in the final play of the game as the Pacific islanders just missed out on a triumph to set alongside their 2007 World Cup defeat of the Welsh.

"They have got so many world-class athletes," Anscombe, in contention to start at fly-half for Wales this weekend, said Wednesday.

"They are not a side that requires too much shape or structure because they have got so much firepower.

"They can beat you one on one and once they are in behind you they are very hard to stop. They are a huge test and probably don't get the credit they deserve.

"It is going to take a massive performance from us to come out on the right side of it. They are a dangerous side and it is going to take a real disciplined performance from us."

Wales coach Gatland is set to name his team on Friday, with Anscombe one of several experienced players set to feature after missing the tour of Australia in July.

P.Sinclair--TNT

Featured

Maswanganyi Clarifies Pirates Allegiance Amidst Career Transition

Patrick Maswanganyi has addressed speculation surrounding his career by reaffirming that Orlando Pirates remains his dream club, despite growing up as a Kaizer Chiefs supporter. Speaking during an exclusive interview, the Bafana Bafana international also clarified the nature of his relationship with former coach Abdeslam Ouaddou following his recent exit from the Soweto giants.

Kuwait's Yasmeen Waleed Wins High Jump Gold at Dakar Youth Olympics

Kuwaiti athlete Yasmeen Waleed has won the gold medal in the high jump at the fourth Summer Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal. Her victory established a new Kuwaiti national record of 1.80 meters, marking a significant milestone for the nation's youth sports program.

Matvei Michkov Leads Flyers in Goals but Ranks Sixth in Ice Time

Matvei Michkov leads the Philadelphia Flyers with 10 goals through 20 games, but his total ice time ranks sixth among the team's forwards. Head coach Rick Tocchet has concentrated Michkov’s additional minutes on the power play, where he has scored five of his goals, while his even-strength usage has remained relatively stable compared to last season.

Northern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees

The Northern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame (NCJSHOF) has announced its Class of 2026 inductees, honoring four individuals for their athletic achievements and community contributions. The organization will celebrate the new class during its 19th Annual Induction Dinner Gala on November 22 at the Olympic Golf Club in South San Francisco.

Change text size: