Callum Sheedy has been named as the Guinness Six Nations Player of Round 3 following his vital late role in Wales’ Triple Crown-sealing 40-24 win over England.
Brought on in the 44th minute for the injured Dan Biggar, Sheedy kicked three nerveless late penalties in eight second-half minutes to put Wales out of sight before his interception put the cherry on top and led to Cory Hill’s bonus-point try.
That secured a third successive victory of the Championship, the Triple Crown and boosted Wales’ chances of a second Grand Slam in three years.
Wales battled their way to a 17-14 half-time lead in an enthralling contest thanks to scores from Josh Adams and Liam Williams.
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But, a rejuvenated England bounced back through Anthony Watson and appeared poised to take the spoils with the two teams level at 24-24 after further scores for either side from Ben Youngs and Kieran Hardy.
Enter Sheedy, who showed nerves of steel with three brilliant penalty kicks to take the game away from the visitors.
And then, the 25-year-old fly-half was at the heart of his side’s determined defending before intercepting to set Hill free for Wales’ fourth try.
He took 32.5% of the vote, only narrowly holding off teammate Taulupe Faletau by just 21 votes in second with 32.3%.
Guinness Six Nations Player of the Match Faletau was a powerful presence all over the pitch with 14 tackles, 18 carries, and 112 metres made in a phenomenal showing.
Ireland flanker Tadhg Beirne came third, with 22.9% of the vote, while Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones was fourth after he led from the front for his side, with 12.3%.