MX23RW : Thursday, April 25 08:09:37| >> :600:657341:657341:

Rob Howley: 'Poor start cost Wales'

Howley: 'Poor start cost Wales'
© PA Photos
Rob Howley blames Wales's slow start against Ireland for their loss in the opening game of the Six Nations.

Rob Howley has said that Wales's first-half performance was the reason for their 30-22 loss to Ireland in the Six Nations today.

Ireland led by 20 points at the break, before the home side reduced their advantage to eight in the second half.

The interim coach told BBC Sport: "We didn't start well, you need a foothold in the game. You can't give any international side the space and time on the ball which we gave in the first 20 minutes.

"It was a game of contrasting halves; I thought the first 20 minutes was key in terms of a couple of turnovers, they dominated both territory and possession and obviously they took their chances.

"It's just making that right decision under pressure. We talked all week about starting well and we didn't start well and as a result Ireland put points on the scoreboard early."

The loss ensures that Wales will not be able to repeat their Grand Slam win from last year.

ID:67331: cacheID:67331:1false2false3false:QQ:: from db desktop :LenBod:restore:1984:No Data Analysis info
Restore Data
Share this article now:
Rory Best
Read Next:
Best: 'We want to end losing run'
>
Read more about Rob Howley Rugby Union
rhs 2.0
Today's games header


Sports Mole provides in-depth previews and predictions for every match from the biggest leagues and competitions in world football.
Argentina's Lionel Messi kisses the World Cup trophy after collecting the Golden Ball award on December 18, 2022Sign up for our FREE daily preview newsletter direct to your inbox!