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Gatland blasts woeful Wales
10:45, Nov 29 2009
Warren Gatland described Wales' 33-12 defeat to Australia as the "most disappointing performance" since he took over as head coach two years ago.
Wales were outplayed in every facet of the game by a Wallabies team Gatland declared were more "desperate" for the victory following their 9-8 humbling against Scotland last weekend.
"That was the most disappointing performance since I've been in charge of Wales," said Gatland. "Australia dominated the air, defensively it was one of the best displays seen by an Australian side. At scrum time they were strong, in the contact they were aggressive and strong."
He added: "We are disappointed by the number of turnovers, we failed to capitalise on a few opportunities, we played against team that was a little more desperate and hungrier than we were."
The Wallabies scored four tries from Digby Ioane, James Horwill, David Pocock and Tatafu Polota-Nau, including three in a blistering 16-minute first-half spell.
Wales were restricted to three Stephen Jones penalties and a long-range effort from Leigh Halfpenny as they crashed to their heaviest home defeat since Gatland took over after the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
Wales put the Wallabies under immense pressure for periods in the second half - including one passage of 18 phases - but the Australian defensive wall stood firm.
Wales assistant coach Shaun Edwards admitted the Wallabies had taught them a lesson in defence and in the contact area.
"Some of out tackling in the first half was very disappointing. This was my worst day with Wales so far," said Edwards.
"Australia's defence was magnificent. The tackler was incredibly proactive and it wasn't just the back row but from one to 15. Even the scrum-half was very dynamic over the ball. That is the modern game - the aerial battle and the breakdown, two areas we came second."
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