Welsh victory in deaf World Cup

There have been few if any sweet moments for visiting Welsh international rugby teams, but one to savour came in the opening round of the deaf World Cup at the weekend, when Wales beat the favoured New Zealand side 11-5.

New Zealand had been expected to win after their 19-17 victory over Australia in the curtain-raiser to the Bledisloe Cup match in Sydney the previous weekend.

But the result at Eden Park not only sent shockwaves through the tournament, it probably ruined New Zealand's chance of being the first winners of the trophy.

The news of the victory has caused plenty of celebration in Wales.

The Welsh opened the scoring in the first half when centre Mark Withey touched down for a fine try.

First five-eighths Richard Evans kicked a penalty to put Wales in front 8-0 at the break.

New Zealand found the Welsh defence as solid as a rock.

It was not until midway through the second spell that Darryl Alexander scored for the home side.

After Evans added a second penalty, Wales hung on for the deserved victory.

Wales play Australia and New Zealand meet Fiji in the second round at Waitemata Park on Thursday.