00:00Wales finally ended a 10-test losing streak at the Principality Stadium
00:06with a dramatic 24-23 win over Japan.
00:10But the matter of the victory left plenty for cause of concern.
00:14Under new head coach Steve Tandy, the team showed resilience and character
00:17to snatch Alaska's victory, thanks to a pressure penalty from fly-half Jared Evans in the 79th minute.
00:23While the result was positive, the overall performance highlighted significant issues
00:30that Wales will need to address ahead of tougher fixtures against New Zealand and South Africa.
00:38The match was far from comfortable for the hosts.
00:42Wales looked flat for large periods and only managed to regain momentum in the closing stages.
00:49Evans' decisive penalty came after a patient build-up downfield
00:51and a wide penalty opportunity, showcasing his composure under pressure.
00:57His kick prevented Wales from suffering the ignominy of his first ever home defeat to Japan
01:02and preserved a morale-boosting win.
01:06Individually, there were some bright spots.
01:08No. 8 Olly Cracknell led Wales in 13 carries and topped the tackles chart with 24
01:14and putting in a strong all-round performance.
01:17Back row team-mate Alex Mann stepped into Jack Morgan's shoes,
01:20impressed with work-rate, making 20 tackles, winning two turnovers
01:24and energising the closing stages of the match.
01:28However, there remains concerns in the middle.
01:30Thomas and Lewin have yet to translate their club form into consistent international impact,
01:36limiting Wales' attacking cohesion.
01:39Combinations are still betting in.
01:40Ultimately, the win was a relief rather than a statement.
01:49Wales showed grit and managed to secure victory when it mattered,
01:52ending a long-standing home hoodoo.
01:54But inconsistencies remain across the pitch.
01:57If similar performances continue against world-class opponents,
02:01the scoreline could be unflattering.
02:03Nevertheless, Tandy's side now has to perform to build on
02:07and resilience shown against Japan offers hope that improvements are now possible.
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