Wales head coach Warren Gatland says his aspect can take a “enormous quantity” from their 31-7 Six Nations defeat by Eire.
It was Wales’ third successive defeat on this yr’s event following losses towards Scotland and England.
Wales have now misplaced 10 out of the final 11 Six Nations video games and have house video games towards France and Italy to attempt to keep away from ending backside.
“We confirmed some nice coronary heart and character as we speak,” stated Gatland.
“I assumed the scoreline in all probability is not proper, but it surely in all probability displays the place the 2 sides are when it comes to that have.
“We have performed towards the most effective groups on the planet. Eight or 9 of their crew are over 30 and have been round for some time.
“I feel we take an enormous quantity from this. It is the gamers that can have gotten essentially the most out of as we speak.
“I’ve little doubt the place we’re going, this crew goes to be a superb crew going ahead once we get some extra expertise.”
Eire’s ominous march in direction of one other clear sweep continues as they backed up crushing wins over France and Italy with a 3rd consecutive bonus-point triumph to maintain themselves in pole place for additional championship glory.
First-half tries from Dan Sheehan and James Lowe paved the best way for the reigning champions to equal England’s event document of 11 wins in a row as Wales conceded 9 first-half penalties.
Wales averted embarrassment at Aviva Stadium and briefly threatened an inconceivable fightback due to a second-half spell which introduced a penalty attempt to a yellow card for Eire lock Tadhg Beirne.
Stand-in Eire full-back Ciaran Frawley crossed, whereas Beirne secured the bonus-point strive on the finish.
“I used to be upset with that first half, it was tough to get momentum,” stated Gatland.
“For those who undergo the penalties, we questioned whether or not a few of them have been some fairly robust calls.
“We have labored onerous when it comes to attempting to be correct and never be ill-disciplined, freely giving simple ins or outs for the opposition.
“We have got to take it on the chin. Even for that first half, we got here out and stayed within the recreation. I assumed we confirmed some actual character and battle, in all probability as much as that 70-minute level.”
Wales trailed 17-7 once they have been attacking within the second half, however failed to realize that elusive rating.
“We in all probability weren’t as scientific as we needed to be and did not impose our attacking recreation as a lot as we might have preferred,” stated Gatland.
“There have been a number of turnovers in a number of areas. It did not give us that chance to shift the ball and play, however they are a good aspect each on defence and assault.
“We did not create an enormous quantity of area.”
Cardiff full-back Cameron Winnett once more impressed in his third worldwide begin.
“He will be good,” stated Gatland.
“He is calm, we’re happy with him and he is solely going to get higher.”
Gatland believes Eire will go on to win a second successive Grand Slam as they face England and Scotland of their last two video games.
“I feel they’re positively able to doing it,” stated Gatland.
“They have the expertise and the composure. Gamers who can carry and get them on the entrance foot.
“I feel they’re going to be a tough crew to knock over.”