Wales were outplayed in every facet of the game © Getty Images

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Matches: Wales 12 - 33 Australia

Teams: Australia | Wales

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. It was Wales' heaviest home defeat since Gatland took over following the 2007 Rugby 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 defence coach Shaun Edwards lamented Wales' tackling, which was less than impressive in the face of an Australian onslaught.

"Some of our 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."

Wallabies boss Robbie Deans believes that Wales underestimated his side and was delighted with their clinical response.

"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," he said. "You play Test rugby on the day. There is just no point in trying to connect the dots between matches. A week is a long time in this game as we have just seen.

"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. It doesn't matter. The Test was played today and we got up and it was a good effort."