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Rugby Union

Thomas praises plucky Canadians

09/09/2007

Super-sub Gareth Thomas was full of praise for Canada after Wales' nervy 42-17 win in the rugby World Cup.

The Dragons trailed for most of the game before ramming in five tries in the final 30 minutes in Nantes.

Wales led 9-0 after 20 minutes thanks to three penalties from James Hook before being stunned by their unfancied opponents.

Jamie Cudmore, Craig Culpan and Morgan Williams touched down for the Canucks to give them a 17-9 lead at the start of the second half.

Thomas inspired Wales to victory after coming on at the break along with Stephen Jones.

Tries from Sonny Parker, Alun Wyn Jones, Colin Charvis and a brace from Shane Williams helped save Wales' blushes.

Prop Thomas said the Canadians deserved to lead at the break after capitalising on a below-par Welsh start.

"We set ourselves the objective of moving smoothly into the Australia game and the second half provided that, Thomas said.

"I don't think we played to our full potential in the first half - but give credit to Canada, they probably deserved to lead at half-time."

Wales face Japan a week on Thursday in Cardiff followed by a clash with Fiji in Nantes nine days later.