Rugby Union: Craig leads way for Scots

Scotland A 56 Emerging Wales 11

James Craig scored three tries as Scotland A romped to victory over Emerging Wales in Edinburgh yesterday.

The West of Scotland winger capitalised on shoddy Welsh midfield play, twice intercepting passes and sprinting clear, and then rounding off a sweeping handling move.

More than 5,000 spectators packed into Heriot's FP Goldenacre Ground, including a sizeable Welsh contingent who booed their side off the pitch. Despite fielding 10 full internationals and receiving expert coaching from Mike Ruddock and Paul Turner, Wales were never in the game once Craig swooped for his opening score after 18 minutes.

Scotland A's outside-half Scott Welsh chipped in with 21 points from his boot, converting all six tries and adding three penalty goals.

Inspired by Craig's contribution, his fellow winger Cameron Glasgow also blazed away for a first-half try. Although the Wales outside-half Lee Jarvis kept the visitors in touch with two penalty goals, Scotland looked ready for a second-half onslaught when they reached the break leading by 17-6.

Senior caps Andy Nicol and Eric Peters, both of Bath, were prominent as further inroads were made deep into the Welsh defence. Craig completed his hat-trick with two tries in a six-minute spell before the Welsh supporters at last had something to cheer when the Llanelli lock Vernon Cooper ploughed over from close range.

Wales' occasional attacking glimpses were mainly provided by the young Llanelli winger Garan Evans, who also displayed courage when he returned to the pitch - his head bandaged - after being stamped on in a first-half ruck.

Scotland A: D Lee; J Craig, A Tait, P Rouse, C Glasgow; S Welsh, A Nicol; G Graham, S Brotherstone, P Wright, S Campbell, S Grimes, E Peters, C Hogg (capt), S Holmes.

Emerging Wales: J Thomas; G Evans, L Davies, N Davies (capt), D James; L Jarvis, A Moore; N Eynon, R McBryde, S John, V Cooper, P Arnold, A Gibbs, N Thomas, C Wyatt.