Swansea 33 Barbarians 68

Match Events

Report

In a thrilling spectacle at St Helen’s the Barbarians ran out 33-68 winners against Swansea.

The free-flowing contest saw Wales legend and former captain Alun Wyn Jones steal the headlines as he featured for both sides on the day.

The former British and Irish Lion, making a special appearance at his boyhood club, played the first half for Swansea before switching to the Barbarians in the second.

The hosts started brightly, with early tries from Cameron Jones and Morgan Morse giving the All Whites hope.

However, the Barbarians, true to their reputation, responded with a flurry of attacking rugby.

French star Yoann Huget and Springbok speedster Bryan Habana crossed for stunning scores, while Gareth Anscombe controlled the game superbly from fly-half.

Jones, cheered every time he touched the ball, was central to Swansea’s early resistance, putting in trademark tackles and leading the line-out.

However, after switching shirts at halftime, he helped the Barbarians dictate the second half, linking up with former international teammates in a dominant display.

Tries from Chris Ashton and Scott Fardy stretched the BaaBaas’ lead, while Swansea battled bravely, adding consolation scores through full-back Harri Houston and winger Harri Doel.

The match, played in the spirit of celebration, ended with Jones receiving a standing ovation as he left the field, capping off a special night for the legendary lock.