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.
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 World Cup.
“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.
“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.”
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.
Wallabies coach Robbie Deans admitted afterwards Australia had identified Wales’ scrummaging as a weakness.
“That would be fair,” he said. “Their tight five do not have a lot of background but it is also an area that has been going well for us.
“We are stoked this group took the step they did today. We have been waiting for it to come and we have been close but the boys got it done today.
“I give a lot of credit to our blokes for making it happen. Also, maybe Wales underestimated us. Maybe they saw we came up short against Scotland and thought we were there for the taking.”
