The latest loss means Wales have gone a whole calendar year without a victory in a test, an unwelcome statistic that has not occurred since 1937.
World champions South Africa cantered to a seven-try victory in Cardiff with second-rows Franco Mostert and Eben Etzebeth providing the perfect platform crossing to score inside eight minutes.
Springbok wing Kurt-Lee Arendse and flanker Elrigh Louw also crossed in the first half before back Aphelele Fassi, loose-head prop Gerhard Steenekamp, and man of the match Jordan Hendrikse all followed in a disjointed second half as South Africa showed no let-up in the final game of their season.
Wing Rio Dyer and flanker James Botham crossed for what were consolation tries as Wales just about avoided their worst-ever home defeat leaving under pressure Gatland’s future very much up in the air.
The WRU will meet this week for their yearly review to discuss the future of the national side. For Gatland, one key factor that will need addressing is the developmental process and programme within the youth system.
“It was a tough game. A really tough game. But I cannot question how hard our players tried out there. I thought they gave absolutely everything, said Gatland following the loss.
“When you play the world champions, you know how clinical they are, how effective they are, the power they can bring off the bench with the 6-2 split.
“For us, it’s going away from this campaign with a few players – not everyone – aware there is some conditioning work to do so they are in better shape for the next campaign.”
“I am motivated to want to be here. I definitely want to be here, and it is just about letting the dust settle over the next few days, talking to people about the best thing. Talking to people in the Union [WRU].
“I wouldn’t be human if I didn’t say the last few weeks haven’t been challenging and tough. We’ve questioned ourselves after each game, what could we have done better, what could I have done better in the week with preparation.
“That is no different to when you are winning, too. You will still ask yourself the same questions. It is seeing what happens over the next few days, then go and chat with the powers that be and also talk to family.
“It’s amazing what a difference 12 months can make after the World Cup.
“You lose all those caps and experience; it has been challenging. I think for us, from a [Welsh Rugby] Union’s perspective, there needs to be a remit with the regions.
“There needs to be some change. I’ve spoken in board meetings about us being courageous and bold with decisions to improve the game.
“The pathways and under-20s programme are the lifeblood of the game.
“Since we disbanded the national academy, we’re probably a reflection of how the under-20s programme hasn’t been as successful.
“There’s things to put in place. There needs to be an agreement between the Union and regions to effect positive change.
“It’ll take time. It won’t happen overnight, but I came away from today thinking, if these players can learn there’s some hope.”
[Lead image Welsh Rugby Union]
