Grand Slam-chasing Wales enjoyed the perfect start to their Guinness Six Nations clash with Ireland when Hadleigh Parkes crossed after just 70 seconds.
The move started with Alun Wyn Jones claiming Ken Owen’s throw at the lineout, before a driving maul from the hosts earned Warren Gatland’s men a penalty.
Knowing Wales already had the advantage, Gareth Anscombe chipped over the Ireland backline and Parkes rushed through to gather the ball and score.
Parkes was in the thick of the action again moments later – but this time at the other end of the pitch as he produced a remarkable try-saving tackle.
A clever cross-kick from Johnny Sexton picked out Jacob Stockdale, who caught the Welsh defence flat-footed and shrugged off Gareth Davies before racing towards the tryline.
But last year’s Player of the Championship was unable to add to his try tally as Parkes managed to make up the ground and bring the Irish winger down.
Wales went into the break with a commanding 16-0 lead after Anscombe added three penalties to his conversion of Parkes’ try.
And Anscombe increased his side’s advantage after the restart with another three-pointer after good work from Adam Beard and Josh Navidi forced the penalty.
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Source: 6 Nations