KEIRA Bevan took herself back to the green, green grass of home as she kicked Wales to a dramatic, last gasp World Cup victory over Scotland.
The 25-year-old scrum half stepped up to convert the stoppage time penalty that earned coach Ioan Cunningham’s side a crucial 18-15 win in their opening Pool A game at the Semenoff Stadium in Whangarei.
And Bevan has revealed how hours of practice with her father Richard at Pontarddulais Rugby Club gave her the confidence to slot the winning kick and spark unprecedented scenes of jubilation amongst the Wales squad.
Richard and Mum Liz, who were amongst the Welsh contingent in the stadium, got the chance to give their daughter a much deserved hug before the sense of achievement had even sunk in.
When it did, Bevan said; “I’m just glad to get the win to be honest. I backed myself to take the kick. I was striking the ball well in the warm-up on the off-chance I would be called upon.
“Stephen (kicking coach Stephen Myler) will be happy. He’s helped me loads with my kicking recently to take my kicking to the next level.
“I just pictured I was back home at Pontarddulais, kicking with my dad as that’s where I feel the most comfortable and get the best out of myself.
“I’m just glad my parents could come and support us and managed to have a quick hug after the game.
“When you win, it’s always easier to reflect. We know we can’t be that ill-disciplined against New Zealand and Australia but to get a win in a world cup, that’s the ultimate aim. To start well was massive for us. If we win a few more small moments in key times of the game, we will put ourselves in more good positions.
“Credit to Scotland too I think we kind of struggled to match them at times but we have this week to work hard and get ready for the Black Ferns now.”
