Alex Ridgway’s double kept Wales U20s perfect in Pool A as Richard Whiffin’s side swept Uruguay aside 47-0 at the Junior World Championship in Tbilisi.
Wales made it two wins from two at Avchala Stadium on Thursday, backing up their dramatic 25-24 opening victory over Georgia with a seven-try shutout that now sends them into a decisive meeting with defending champions South Africa.
World Rugby’s matchday report confirmed Wales had made 13 changes from the Georgia win, but the reshuffle did not blunt their attack. Replacement centre Steffan Emanuel scored twice, while Oscar Thomas, Ridgway, Brogan Leary and Tom Bowen also crossed.
Ridgway sharpens Wales route
Ridgway’s first-half finish helped Wales reach the interval 26-0 ahead, before the Bath prospect struck again after the break. Lloyd Lucas controlled the scoreboard from the tee, and Wales were ruthless enough to turn Uruguay’s resistance into sustained pressure.
The result matters because Pool A is now cleanly set. Wales and South Africa both have two wins, and Tuesday’s meeting will carry direct semi-final weight after the Junior Springboks beat Georgia 33-5.
For Wales, the strongest note was not only the margin. It was the depth. Whiffin rotated heavily, lost Osian Justin Williams and Dylan James to yellow cards, and still left Uruguay scoreless.
That gives Wales a sharper selection debate before South Africa. Ridgway, Emanuel and Bowen all strengthened their case, while the pack delivered enough control to make the backline’s finishing count.
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Sources: World Rugby matchday report; Read Rugby Union preview archive.
