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Rugby Union

Wasps claim crucial victory

13/01/2008

Wasps scored six tries in a 40-7 win over Llanelli Scarlets vital to their hopes of European success.

The London side are locked in a three-way tussle in pool five of the Heineken Cup along with Munster and French side Clermont Auvergne.

Wasps had to beat Llanelli today to give themselves a chance of reaching the quarter-finals with the final round of pool matches to be played next week.

Ian McGeechan's side have struggled to earn themselves try-scoring bonus points of late despite an attractive blend of running rugby, spearheaded by young fly-half Danny Cipriani.

However they managed to land four tries in the opening 40 minutes against the Scarlets who continued their woeful form in this year's competition.

Fraser Water opened the scoring after six minutes and England captain Phil Vickery added to the tally midway through the first half.

Llanelli continued to attack and were rewarded for some good handling with a try for Deacon Manu in the corner.

But Wasps responded immediately, crafting a superb try from first phase possession. David Doherty eventually scooped up Riki Flutey's chip to score and Dominic Waldouck helped make it 26-7 at the break.

Wasps continued to dictate play in the second period and were able to play a territorial game, free from the need to chase any bonus points, and Rob Hoadley and Paul Sackey added further tries for the defending champions.

Next week Wasps face Munster at Thomond Park knowing victory is likely to send them through to the last eight of the competition.