Wales flanker Alex Callender dedicated her first 2023 Six Nations try to her late mother Donna, who died two months ago following a long battle with cancer.
Callender, affectionately referred to as Al Call by her teammates and coaches, started Wales' 31-5 win against Ireland on Saturday, which got their 2023 Women's Six Nations campaign off to a flying start in front of a record crowd of almost 5,000 at Cardiff Arms Park.
The 22-year-old back-rower gave Wales an early lead after just three minutes, when she touched down in the corner following a good drive from the maul.
Wales went on to score four more tries, answered by a single try from the Irish, who are a team in transition. In comparison, Wales are 14 months into their professional era.
Sharing a photo of her try post-match, Callender said: "That one was for you Don Cal". Her number one fan, who was a regular at Wales and Worcester Warriors Women games, died in late January.
Wales head coach Ioan Cunningham said in his post-match press conference: "We're a strong group, we care about each other a lot and it was great to see Al Call get that try."
On January 29, Callender posted on Instagram: "My beautiful Don Cal. My number 1 fan. My biggest supporter. My why. My rock. My best friend. The bravest and strongest woman I know. My warrior!
"A smile that can light up a room. Your wicked sense of humour. Your infectious laugh. Your beautiful eyes. Your beautiful heart. A bloody legend!
"Make sure you’ve got the rugby on up there Don Cal… I’ll be playing my heart out for you always and forever! My WHY ALWAYS. They’ll definitely hear you before they see you. My beautiful mam".
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