Wales secured their first victory in the Six Nations in three years after they beat Italy 31-17 in Cardiff.
Steve Tandy’s side is likely to finish bottom of the championship, earning them the wooden spoon, but there is still a chance for England to claim this ignominy in this year’s Six Nations if France can inflict a record defeat upon Steve Borthwick’s side.
It has been a tough period for Wales, as they have now only secured their third win in their last 27 international Tests, and so fans will be pleased they have managed to beat an evolving Italy.
Rugby fans across the world would be forgiven for thinking that the Welsh fans would be celebrating wildly following this victory over the Azzurri, and while there is evidence that they have, there was a pause following the appearance of one man on their TV screens.
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Dave Reddin, the director of rugby for the WRU, joined the BBC for an interview after the victory in the hopes of joining in the celebrations and heaping more praise on Steve Tandy’s team after their impressive win.
However, presenter Gabby Logan was quick to find some answers to the WRU’s plans to remove one of the regions from the professional setup.
Reddin defended this decision, arguing that if Welsh clubs wish to compete in the URC and against Prem and Top 14 sides in Europe, then they will need to put all their resources into three teams.
This decision will result in the loss of one of Cardiff, Ospreys, Scarlets and the Dragons, with a set of fans fearing the worst and the disappearance of their club after years of rich history.
The popularity of Reddin is not great within most circles of Welsh rugby fans, and they were quick to let their feelings be known regarding his appearance on the BBC.
One said: “Shock horror, the shameless chancer turning up and getting himself on TV after we’ve won.”
Another added: “I went from smiling like a goon to swearing at the TV when Reddin came on! No-one cares what you say or think; we don't want you anywhere near our national game, so jog right on!"
While a fan commented: “Ahh, nothing dampens the post-match mood than seeing Dave Reddin join the pundits.”
Meanwhile, Reddin avoided answering Alun Wyn Jones’ question regarding the future of Welsh rugby, and this also angered fans.
One said: “Dave Reddin just now on BBC told Gabby he couldn’t hear AWJ’s remarks on the WRU plan. What a tosser – he was standing 5 ft away; he could hear perfectly. These are the kinds of disrespectful, dishonest people in charge. Redin and the rest of the board need to go.”
Welsh fans will enjoy this momentary joyful moment in rugby after a tough period recently but will hope that their current tough circumstance can be resolved quickly, even if it is likely to please nobody.
Topics: Rugby, Rugby Union
Brendan McGilligan