Scotland began a new chapter under head coach Sione Fukofuka with a tense 24-19 victory over Wales in the opening round of the Women's Six Nations.
In a match that swung dramatically, Scotland held off a late Welsh surge to secure their fifth consecutive win against their Celtic rivals. The victory was sealed in a frantic final sequence at Principality Stadium, where Wales pressed relentlessly as the clock ticked past 80 minutes.
"They threw the kitchen sink at us in those final moments, but the team showed incredible resilience to hold on," a Scottish team spokesperson remarked after the match.
Wales started brightly, with tries from front-rowers Kelsey Jones and Sisilia Tuipulotu giving them a promising 12-10 halftime lead. Scotland's opening score came from a slick counter-attack finished by Chloe Rollie.
The momentum shifted decisively in the second half. Scotland crossed twice through Shona Campbell and Lucia Scott, while fly-half Helen Nelson added crucial points with the boot. Wales captain Kate Williams scored a late try to set up the dramatic finish, but it wasn't enough to end Wales' championship winless streak, which now extends to six matches.
Despite the loss, Wales showed significant improvement from their World Cup meeting last summer, with new defence coach Tyrone Holmes making an immediate impact. Teenage debutant Jorja Aiono impressed with her ball-carrying throughout.
Scotland now look ahead to hosting reigning champions England at Murrayfield next Saturday, while Wales will welcome France to Cardiff Arms Park.