WXV Global Series: Sean Lynn hails grit of 13-player Wales in Japan win

Wales head coach Sean Lynn has praised the grit shown by his side during their five-try victory over Japan.

Wales looked comfortable in the WXV contest at 29-5 until replacements Keira Bevan and Hannah Dallavalle were yellow-carded within two minutes of each other.

It left them defending for their lives in the final 10 minutes in Kumagaya City with the hosts launching wave after wave of attack.

And while Japan carry the Brave Blossoms nickname, Wales were more than worthy of the tag themselves as they refused to concede.

"We knew it was going to be another tough one," said Lynn.

"The grit we showed to go down to 13 players and just hold them out at the end, that for me is just a sign of how far this squad has come.

"Everybody told me how amazing Japan is and for us to come away to win two Test matches is an amazing achievement from all players and staff. A huge pat on the back to everyone."

Lynn's post-match praise was echoed by co-captain Kate Williams.

Reflecting on the performance, she said: "We were brave with the ball and I think that showed in the tries that we scored. We can be really pleased with our set piece as well.

"Something that we need to continually work on is our discipline, but I'm really proud of the defensive effort, especially in that last 20 minutes with the two yellow cards."

Wales complete Japan double to end WXV on a high

WXV Global Series - reaction as Wales earn five-try win over Japan

The Welsh performance was far from perfect but it was another victory for a side which could not buy a win this time last year.

It also rounds off a successful WXV campaign, with Wales securing three wins from four in the Global Series and back-to-back Test wins for the first time in more than two years.

"We've got a really exciting team playing for Wales at the minute," said Williams.

"There's a really good mix of experience and young blood coming through and I'm really proud of all the girls who have stepped out onto the pitch, and also the girls who haven't made the 23, we've really galvanised as a group.

"We want to keep playing brave and keep reinforcing our DNA as Welsh players."

Wales travel back from Japan on Sunday before players head back to their Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) and Celtic Challenge clubs for the start of their domestic seasons.

Lynn said he will "stay connected" with the players before bringing them back into camp early next year for their Six Nations preparations.

Wales open their 2027 campaign at home to world champions England.