Wales came from behind to edge Samoa 17-10 in a dramatic and bruising contest to claim their first win over the Pacific islanders in three Rugby World Cup meetings at Waikato Stadium on Sunday.
The Welsh were forced to defend for their lives after winger Shane Williams had scored their only try 13 minutes from time but held on to give themselves every chance of progressing from Pool D, which also includes Fiji, Namibia and South Africa.
Samoa, who were aiming for a third World Cup win over the Welsh after 1991 and 1999 triumphs, took a 10-6 lead on the stroke of halftime when prop Anthony Perenise pirouetted his way through three tacklers to cross the line and Paul Williams converted.
Wales, who narrowly lost their opener to South Africa, tackled themselves to a standstill, however, and the Williams try combined with two penalties apiece for James Hook and Rhys Priestland proved enough for victory.
The result of the game could have a major influence on the make-up of Pool D as Samoa now need to beat South Africa and Fiji and hope Wales lose to either Namibia or Fiji to have any chance of reaching the quarter-finals.
Scorers
Wales: Try: Shane Williams. Penalties: James Hook (2), Rhys Priestland (2).
Samoa - Try: Anthony Perenise. Penalty: Paul Williams. Conversion: Williams.
Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)
