IS GATLAND SPENT? | FRANCE vs WALES | THE MORNING AFTER

Some thoughts on both Wales and France, which didn't get mentioned on the instant reaction to the game, but have had time to percolate over the last 12 hours. Food for thought for both teams.

[@Bacon56ful]

Him and Eddie Jones peaked with the 2019 RWC, the game has changed massively since then and they've both stuck to what they believe instead of adapting

[@Jungleant310]

Yip100% but don't think they got the money to fire.Somehow eddie keeps getting hired .The aussies got lucky that Japan nicked Eddie

[@gwynfrynevans6467]

@@Bacon56ful I think you mean ‘He, and Eddie Jones…’ And. who on earth inflicted on us, a scruff-bag like Eddie Jones? The man barely speaks English, for God’s sake!

[@booey28]

So what about Borthwick??

[@Jungleant310]

@@booey28 Steve Borthwich have been average at best...Jones have given up! It's all about the money for him, just use the we are building for the next world cup mate excuse to not to get fired.

[@mahasamatman12]

No need to apologize, that's a fair assessment of where Wales are at right now.

[@AntSudbury-tv3we]

Much like , England under this coach ,so many good players , Borthwick couldn't pick he's 👃

[@Brucemcleod2345]

Jack Morgan has a great attitude. Gatland did not do well coaching Waikato and I was really surprised that they took him back.

[@charliepritchard4832]

first video I've watched on your channel, brilliant! no clickbait or nonsense...great review. subsrcibed

[@monsieurwolf6122]

Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. As a Welsh supporter, I just think the WRU are stuck in 2012 and hope to return to how things were. Playing 'hard' and giving effort is the bare minimum standard, losing by 30+ points every game is not something a 2nd tier nation would accept, we shouldn't either.

[@johnhall1050]

Remind me again,what's the price of a ticket for Joe public.😢

[@efancording6363]

That genuinely isn't the definition of insanity

[@ajs7974]

Jac Morgan is the only welsh player that deserves to go to Australia later this year

[@EggchasersRugby]

Dewi Lake, if fit, would be another

[@joedubsnwubs]

Tomos Williams? Third choice with JGP and Alex Mitchell?

[@RUGBYDNA]

​@EggchasersRugby definitely. Lake is the one player from the current era that us South Africans respect in terms of physicality and attitude. Lake has had some good tussles with Marx

[@eoghan.okeeffe]

What a player, incredibly disciplined, ferocious in attack, and lead by example for his team. Would love to see a huge Wales turnaround in the next two years, otherwise talent like Morgan is wasted

[@ajs7974]

@@EggchasersRugby I would have him as the replacement hooker behind Dan Sheehan

[@johnhearne2192]

I think Gatland was made look good by Shaun Edwards and his departure signalled the end of Wales successes. Major mistake letting him go to France, France have improved since Edwards arrived and turned them into a great defensive team to complete their attacking creativity.

[@oghamstone5964]

🎯

[@actionjackson493]

Edwards is just one bloke. Yeah he works the players hard, but it's not like he used the Men In Black flashy thing on the entire squad when he left.

[@grahamfay2473]

Totally agree that we need Shaun Edwards back but get rid of Garland and his team.

[@SovrinWealth]

Harmless - yes, that bites very deeply - and the pundits were spot on - Wales can't magically get out of this mess - their players have to go through the process of improvement which is going to take a couple of seasons still and they are still going to lose matches badly - no other option - they will have to double their fitness regimes - each player personally - they are going to have to double their tackle rate in matches - they will have to empty the tank up to 50 minutes and then bomb squad like SA and bring on their best players for the last 30 or so minutes to lessen the potential wipe out in the later stages of a match - tough times - would Rassie even be able to change their fortunes?

[@SMacCuUladh]

attack is the best form of defence in rugby and Wales have no shape, no strike moves, no multi-phase play.

[@Uddify]

@@SMacCuUladh HOWLEY = End of Gats

[@Blacksheeps4929]

Agreed howley needs to go​@@Uddify

[@simonmorgan225]

​@@SMacCuUladhScarlets play with width cut angles offload etc etc. He's picked 5 of the back line but then won't play our centres. Gats should love Eddie James but won't pick him, big ball carrier with great hands. Howley is awful as attack coach always has been. That style does not suit these players.

[@xxwales15xx33]

They WONT improve with Gatland and Howley in charge they'll only continue to get worse

[@minnietoby]

Irish fan , I thought the ref got a lot wrong especially a high tackle against a welsh player, France definitely deserved their big win they are superb, & so young, but I really hope wales comeback the world of rugby need this great little country who have given us some of the best rugby matches in the past , but if I were France I wouldn’t be strutting my stuff just yet

[@CROM-on1bz]

You know if there is a country that does not "crowd" it is France, in terms of bad times we know it lasted 10 years and during these 10 years we had to work, rebuild the clubs, the rugby schools, the training methods and everything else. So yes the Welsh took a big beating but when you are at your lowest you can only go up.

[@michelnourry4305]

The French aren’t strutting their stuff, they knew that this Welsh team is thé worst in the 6 nations . They simply did what they had to do , and by the 50th minute rested a third of the team. England at Twikenham is when the tournament starts . The only problem is, as Tim mentioned, injuries (Flamant and Penaud) and at 10 - do you go to Ramos or chose Jalibert ? Will they win it all ? Maybe … but after the 2 matches played Saturday none of the next 4 are pushovers. And as Going to Twicks isn’t easy , nor is it for Ireland going to Murrayfield (from a French fan)

[@arserobinson7118]

It's too early, it's as simply as that. Some players need a lot more experience and some replaced by new talents when they come along. Until then it's Wales getting the Wooden Spoon, or perhaps fluking a win over Italy or England on a bad day.

[@neilroberts9070]

It is easy to pick the faults, but finding the answers is ultimately harder, not sure anyone knows the answers, let alone the authority to put it right

[@pauldurkee4764]

What makes it worse are the people who have been paid to make terrible decisions at the WRU. The Welsh regions when they play, the crowds are so small it's embarrassing.

[@johnswann1788]

Love the channel blaa, blaa, blaa. 2 things. Firstly, talking about Wales’ toothless attack, Alex King left his role as attack coach a couple of weeks ago with Rob Howley taking over. I think that was some red meat thrown to the press and the fans to try and take the heat off Gatland. Tactically, it’s clearly not been a great idea! Secondly, when has Gatland been his most successful? Domestic and European championships with Wasps. Grand Slams with Wales. What’s changed? What’s different? What’s missing? SHAUN EDWARDS!!! At his side at every win was Shaun so maybe, just maybe, Gatland has never been the answer.

[@clauderatinierleglaude7535]

JE SUIS FRANCAIS ET J AIME AUSSI LE PAYS DE GALLES QUI ETAIT TRES FORT LES ANNEE PRESEDANTE ET J ESPERE QU ILS REMONTERONT DANS LEURS JEU

[@shishkinekavinsky]

Tu sais que les majuscules ca fait mal aux yeux! Ton message est positif mais tu est est sur une video Anglaise sois subtile, fais pas passer les Francais pour des bourrins.

[@MrKylljoy]

oh lala le menteur

[@ericguillerm5152]

Je suis Aussi francais qui habit au pays de Galles depuis 30 ans et je vois Le pays de Galles rugby house exploding slowy

[@ericguillerm5152]

We did ex wales player to manage wales and recreate rugby school of excellence

[@afwilliams634]

Excellent analysis on Wales from a Welshman👏🏼

[@Gilboy63]

You are an excellent analyst mate.

[@mhoppy6639]

They also had Sean Edwards when they had the success. He undoubtedly made a difference. The Bayonne Express might do a job but the players don’t seem to be able to cut it currently

[@StevenJackson-re6qm]

Was looking for someone to mention Shaun. Glad I’m not alone in that view.

[@mrintresting256]

Great analysis….spot on with France’s scrum….i was anticipating us getting mullered there but it didn’t happen. I really feel for the boys in red..tough times ahead.

[@Thudsrayz]

🎯 Also a Gats fan, also don't like running down him nor the players. Thought they played their guts out. Would like to see those same players with fresh ideas. Glad ppl seeing more of attisogbe. Performing for Pau for a couple of seasons now

[@cruncherdan]

One point I would slightly disagree with, I don’t think Gatland’s tactics are outdated per se, it’s just he doesn’t now have the players to make it work. For example the few times Jac Morgan carried with the ball yesterday he actually looked capable of breaking the gain line as he is one of the only players in that squad that has the size and athleticism to compete at that level. If Gatland still had backs with the size and speed of a Roberts, a Davies, a North, then I think it could still be effective (at least to a certain degree). The problem is, he doesn’t, and so needs to adapt to what he has got to work with, which unfortunately he doesn’t look capable of doing. Some very tough years ahead I fear!

[@xxwales15xx33]

Completely disagree. Gatland, Howley, Humphreys, Forshaw etc etc are completely past their sell by date. They really do have a quality bunch of players but they're just catastrophically letting them down. The most in-form scrumhalf in the premiership is Welsh, most in-form (arguably) fly half is Welsh and the 2nd top try scorer is Welsh. Along with the fact that Cardiff/Scarlets/Ospreys are playing much better this season scoring great try's week in week out. I would put my house on it that if we replaced Gatland now with a coaching team that is actually competent with todays game then we'd see a massive improvement. The evidence is all there to see

[@grahamfay2473]

Gatland and his team need to go now. Gatland continues to stick to the same old game and it's not working!

[@thomaseskenazi2013]

Agree with everything Tim! It is worth noting today, Galthié was invited in FranceTV before Ireland-England and said the defense needed was the point that needed most improvment, and the team is genreally at its peak for the third game. He was aslo curious to see what Smith as a fly half vs Ford would mean for te kicking game of England. Also, unrelated, he had on of his poetic sentences about the future of the game : "With the new laws, sky is now a new space of conquest, this is _maginfique_ for rugby!", and I feel the following game was a perfect illustration of it =)

[@Rich00153]

Very fair and insightful comments, Tim. I hope Wales either win against Italy or get an absolute beatdown to move Gats on. A narrow defeat would be the worst of all worlds

[@them1stocles]

Thank God! I’m tired of people making excuses. Everything people say about the wru, lack of player quality, finances, regions - fine. But we should be doing better with what we have. If we were putting our best foot forward, fine, but we’re not.

[@TP1988]

One way or another, I bet they won’t be harmless against England

[@EggchasersRugby]

Oh I agree - they always raise their game for that one

[@HeartShapedBox93]

@@EggchasersRugbythey won’t be able to. Honestly, Gatland and Howley have completely lost the dressing room.

[@huwjohn5540]

@@TP1988 ordinarily I would agree with you but what 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 are going through atm is anything but ordinary- and by the time 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 play 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 , they could be zero wins from 4 and possibly yet to earn a point , so confidence could be on the floor if it’s not already

[@TP1988]

@@huwjohn5540 England could be zero wins from four too 😆

[@michelnourry4305]

@@TP1988it’s a possibility but unlikely. They face Italy who they’ve never lost. Wales, sadly,and this applies to all sports are in a wilderness of lack of real talent. Their clubs are floundering and there is no actual elite talent coming through . Italy invested heavily in their youth teams and now are reaping the rewards but that took 5-10 years. Luckily, for Wales, they can’t get relegated because they wouldn’t come back for aeons.

[@IronCurtainTwitcher]

Gatland enjoyed a lot of his success Wasps and Wales in partnership with Shaun Edwards

[@RUGBYDNA]

Gatland had some good race horses under him during the glory years for Wales. AWJ, Biggar, Warburton, Gethin, Faletau etc... He also had Shaun Edwards who is a great defense coach and helped Wales play a sort of anti-rugby, similar to the boks. Very effective if you are well conditioned and committed. But you need the right horses for that and a SE type guy to run it. Not sure the current crop and coaches can replicate that and there seems to be a bit of an identity crisis.....stuck between the past and the future.

[@23lnp]

Very well put 👍🏼 couldn’t have said it better myself.

[@airassy]

Hey there! Long-time viewer of the channel, love the content! But I think Gatland is getting a pretty rough deal here. Let’s put aside his historic achievements for a moment because he’s been an incredible coach in the past. Also, just to clarify, I'm an Ireland fan, so I don't have a huge stake in the Wales situation, but I think we need to consider the bigger picture. In rugby today, everyone's comparing teams to others, but Wales is one of those nations that's had their entire system gutted. Their provincial approach to rugby, where everything came from the ground up, is almost nonexistent now. The coaching pipeline seems to have dried up, and there doesn’t seem to be any emerging talent that can add that “X-factor” into the team. Realistically, I think Wales needs a solid 10 years of rebuilding to get back to a competitive level. If they followed the approaches of other countries, like Ireland's grassroots strategy, it would take that long to restore what they once had. That's how far behind they are. That said, let’s talk about what happened last night. For the first 20 minutes, Wales had incredible possession and were dogged in the rucks, making tackles and scrambling. But let’s be real - when you’re up against a team like France, who are dynamic and can break through defenses with ease, do you really want to be kicking the ball to them? France is one of the best attacking teams in the world right now. If Wales gave them the ball, they were practically guaranteeing another try. So, in that context, Wales’ strategy of holding onto possession and charging through the line makes sense. Sure, they were struggling in the second half, but what else could they do? France was in full control when they had the ball, and Wales managed to stop at least two tries on the line. Their scrum wasn’t terrible, and the Welsh defense wasn’t bad overall. The issue is they don’t have the big players to match up physically, and they didn’t seem to challenge in the lineouts. Their kicks up the field, and out wide, also seemed unlucky at times or hesitant plays. Like that terrible grubber kick in the first 15 into French hands. Its a fair point to say that there was more then a couple of mistakes tho, - The few bad knock-ons and unfortunate breaks - kept them from potentially getting two scores in the first half. Honestly, I think the game could have ended 10-43 if things had gone slightly differently. And for Wales to go to France, with the way the French team is played, and compete like they did? That’s no easy task. I wouldn’t want to send Ireland out against that French team. I think the best course of action now is to hold off on making any judgments on Gatland until after the Italy and Scotland games. If they get hammered by Italy, that’s probably it. But if they put up a good fight against Scotland, then it’s time to have that discussion about whether Gatland is still the right person for the job.

[@MattConnolly-wi8oh]

When Andy Farrell gets back to Ireland, Simon Easterby is an obvious head coach pick. Scarlets man with major experience.

[@SMacCuUladh]

if i had to pick no2 at ireland or no 1 at ireland i'd stay were i was,

[@druid6722]

@@SMacCuUladh Absolutely. I can't imagine any half decent coach being willing to take on the Welsh job and Easterby, despite his Welsh connections, will stay with Ireland.

[@grumbleguff7376]

A good coach would look at the best players available to them and make a game plan that works for those players. Gatland only has one game plan but doesn't have the players to fulfill that plan. It is very frustrating as a Welsh supporter watching much better players playing for regions but not getting a look in at international level.

[@Andrewjamespiper]

Welsh fan here. Completely agree with the comments, fantastic analysis.

[@GrandslamTim1]

welsh fan here - agree 100% with comments

[@bigg5582]

Don't forget about his stint with ireland from 98 to 2001...he brought in the golden generation ✨️

[@steverees1936]

A fair assesment mate and as a Welshman it's really tough to see any way out of this. I always look forward to Wales playing England more than any other team, because of the history and not because of anything else. There has been some major battles over the decades I've watched them play each other and all nail biting. I do think Wales have improved over last year but we still lack attacking flair and look cluless with ball in hand. We are also so predictable by a long shot. Our defence was much tighter lineouts better and even the scrum was better but not up to modern day standards. You pointed out some talented players and I would add Tommy Reffel, Tommas Williams and a few others but why is he picking Tompkins? There thats my rant over lol!

[@HeartShapedBox93]

I don’t believe Wales’ players are that different to ours. I mean, they perform well in the prem. I watch Jarrod Evans, Tomos Williams, Anscombe, Freddie Thomas, Llewellyn, Jenkins, Refell, Carré, Hathaway, Tshiunza, Hawkins, Cracknell and more, every week in the prem. They look very good to me. I’m not saying they’d make the England team, but I think some would at least. Then add the Welsh based players and they should be able to make a good team. (Just after I wrote this Habana’s Sage advert popped up in the middle of your video 😂).

[@gandigooglegandigoogle7202]

Il faut tempérer nos commentateurs, c'est une erreur de dire "harmless", une équipe est toujours "harmless" jusqu'a ce qu'elle réalise un essai.....cette fois ci les gallois n'ont pas eu cette chance, mais je trouve "harmless" exagéré, c'est le commentaire d'un journaliste sportif tranquillement installé sur une chaise avec un Cognac dans la main, ce n'est pas celui des joueurs! ....je suis d'accord avec toi, bon commentaire!

[@SMacCuUladh]

je pense la meme, allez les vertes

[@pierre-antoinecartier2042]

you are by far the best rugby channel on youtube .... what a pleasure to listen to your analyses ... and especially your neutral and enlightened point of view...Thanks Tim.... Allez les Bleus !!!

[@maff_001]

Neutral? Very one eyed I think. Usually I don't watch this chap because of it.

[@SMacCuUladh]

@@maff_001 If everyone disagrees with you, you might need to look at yourself.

[@maff_001]

@ this is one of the fun things about being a grown up - we can all have an opinion. mine is just an opinion - same as everyone else 😜

[@davidbibey3013]

France are a well organised powerful team with a generational "legit general". Wales are still in transition and worked hard to keep the score down. Garland did well with the talent available, the low tackles were generally effective but discipline was poor. I trust WG to keep improving this team.

[@turloughconway8178]

This is over the top. The 12-3 penalty account was massively unfair to Wales. They were a match for France for 20 minutes and a few errors brought France into the scoring zone. I saw Wales stand up and fight for the entire match. Gatland is here for the 6N. Because Wales fought and concentrated to the end, they will learn and develop. I think they are well in with a chance to beat Italy. If they do they can have a cut at the other teams including having a cut against Ireland in Cardiff and England.

[@michelnourry4305]

A match for 20 minutes but went in 28-0 at half time. Then France swapped out a third of the team including Dupont at 50th , still added 15 points and weren’t even threatened when at 14. And I love Welsh rugby history but the decline of talent has been constant for 4 or 5 years and is shown in the URC too. This team will,based on the performances over the weekend will be beaten handily by an Italian team with flair, talent and youth .

[@StevenJackson-re6qm]

It was painful to watch as a neutral.

[@stalkek]

It was gutsy from Wales, but after the opening passages they genuinely never looked like scoring. However well you defend, you’re in trouble if you can’t score more than zero.

[@jamescandler6823]

Fantastic video mate. I thought 'having a script is so important because it allows you to go off-script' was brilliant. Eggchasers and squidge crossover anyone?

[@SMacCuUladh]

Tim is great, squidge is over-rated.

[@tim.jenkins75]

Wales have good enough players. Our scrum was OK....we had possession..... its the patterns of play ..... new coach set up now needed.....

[@HelixEvo-0]

We have big men not even in the squad. Rhys Carrie and Max Llewelyn for starters.

[@clivedytor2069]

Thank you for being honest. The problem for Welsh fans,which I am,is that criticising the boys is not considered acceptable…we are too loyal. The reality is..Gatland has been brilliant but he is yesterday’s man. He should never ever have returned as he has tarnished his wonderful reputation. Thank you Warren but please go now. Please.

[@joehope9975]

I will stand by the fact we have a decent group of tier 1 quality players available but Gatland either refuses to pick them or plays them out of position. And in my opinion, Gatland's greatest crime is that for all his talk of developing young players, he has done everything in his power to hurt their chances. He plays them out of position i.e Ben Thomas or doesn't surround them with anyone to learn off. Dan Edwards could learn loads of Gareth Anscomb but didn't pick him because he's to old apparently. And tatically it's pretty apparent, as you mentioned, that he is pretty clueless about how the modern game is meant to be played.

[@herman7661]

How will Wales, on their current form, do against Georgia or even Portugal?

[@ebw9802]

Thinking the same thing myself

[@LuisNunes-ps4sl]

Well, Portugal is not in a particularly impressive shape right now, Wales should power through unless our guys play out of their skins. Georgia beats them down most days.

[@mattbibbings]

Spot on. From a loyal, frustrated, and disappointed Welshman.

[@brendanhogan8193]

💯 spot on. Said the same to mates about WG and Eddie. OGs stuck on predictable sets and no innovation. Great in their days.

[@bwlboy123]

The only thing I'd call you up on is just how relevant the low French penalty count last night is when moving forward in the tournament. I don't think you can guarantee that when France play away against better teams. When you are at rock bottom in sport there is a tendency for officials to have a very premeditated attitude towards the weaker team. There was a lot of inconsistency last night, particularly with how the two teams were refereed at the breakdown. And don't forget, even now, French players have a propensity for major acts of indiscipline with Ntamark last night a case in point.

[@greatimpressionsuk]

Great commentary - as ever

[@karltaylor2857]

He was done long ago. I cant believe he is still there.

[@robvandenheuvel128]

Hi Tim, Enjoy you sharing your thoughts in an open honest fashion. It’s refreshing. I’m not a Gatland fan, we (Boks) found ourselves on the receiving end on many occasions under warren. That said, we learnt to get better (another discussion for another day). Personally, I don’t think he’s a spent force. In much the same way I still recognize some of what the likes of Eddie Jones has to offer. I think Gats finds himself in the wrong environment, the signs were there more than a year ago. How he has hung on for so long astounds me.

[@vmandrant]

From what i read in rugby news, at half time management gave the French team a new goal: not let one point go the Welsh team. So that permanent hard defense line makes sense (especially with Baille trying to go for a jackal at one point and then clearly saying sorry to his team mates afterwards).

[@levigriffiths8213]

Gatland isn’t solely to blame but at this point feels like the whole set up could do with a fresh face with new ideas. Gatlands made some bizarre decisions such as trying to make Ben Thomas a 10 and mason grady a centre. Calling up Cory hill then making him captain? No real consistency in squad selections, telling anscombe he’s basically to old then bringing back 33 year old Liam Williams. Problems in welsh rugby run far deeper than gatland but their is also a feeling that he’s “ yesterdays man”

[@bwlboy123]

You can't question his loyalty, but the WRU should have taken matters out of his hands after last year's 6 Nations. The way the game is coached and played has moved on since 2019.

[@levigriffiths8213]

Nothing to do with loyalty the mans one of the highest paid coaches in international rugby. For such a high salary and little expectation I wouldn’t leave either.

[@bwlboy123]

@@levigriffiths8213 A comment that you can't possibly back up.

[@adrianlloyd5234]

Great review again Tim. If Gats doesn’t get sacked I think he’ll walk away soon.

[@DirkCoetzee1982]

Impossible to imagine that a Tier 1 coach can have 13 losses on the trot and still have a job. Is there no one else in Wales that can take over? If that is the case, then it is a serious enditement of the planning within Wales rugby. Their only hope to break the streak is the fact they are playing Italy next week. Wales outside the top 10 in World rankings is difficult to digest.

[@stephenphillips4609]

Welsh rugby has been destroyed by the Welsh Rugby Union's long-term mismanagement of games in the country. It will take a long time to climb out of this hole. It took France a decade or more.

[@ConnorJ_2407]

With the point on the tactics being naive I completely agree, but to me it solely lies on the coaches. You just look at the relative success Wales had when they did up and unders for Rodgers to regather. It seems like the players are scared to go against the coaches tactics (wonder why Anscombe isn't in the squad...) even if in attack it pushes you back 25 m every time.

[@ricardoburns]

Howley had lost it toward the end of Gatland's last time in charge. The attack was woeful but Edwards defense made Wales a harder team to beat. At least the scrum looks better, is this down to Adam Jones after only a week? Gatland's selections also makes it seem that he may be suited to a different role

[@jonydory622]

I’m French . I watched Georges-Henri Colombe yesterday night. Clearly his cardio is lacking. Always trying to catch his breath. Even an older Atonio is in better shape .

[@phillipsugwas]

What blows my mind is the( unprovided) answer to the question: what period was he supposed to stay for on re appt, and what objectives were targetted ? He was an interim coach 2nd time around

[@rogerdeiss4172]

Great commentary…fair and accurate…as usual…You know your rugby stuff…no doubt..fully agree on Lagisquet. He did an amazing job with Portugal. He ll bring some ‘French flair’ in a team that was yes…it’s sad to say…harmless last nite. 😢 As for the RWC, am afraid that World rugby will never allow a non English speaking team to win the trophy…so sorry for France and Argentina…these buggers ll give instructions to the refs accordingly…sadly…and when the trans are so close to each others, the ref can change the game…a yellow card, a generous penalty…and here you are…look at the RWC2023 where it was a mascarade of refereeing…

[@jocksterDJ]

He was a superb coach. He's now a has been like Eddie Jones-and why the WRU brought him back on a watertight contract on the back of a his defeats in charge on the chiefs (zero wins) and a Lions loss will always be beyond me.

[@Zveebo]

The only reason Gatland is still in the job is because the WRU can’t afford to pay him to leave. Otherwise he’d have been gone at the end of the year for sure. He’s got nothing to offer with a weak set of players in the modern game. France are extremely good, but definitely not unbeatable. High ball is a definite weakness, so I expect England will definitely target that - there is a reason Ramos is usually paired with Kinghorn at Toulouse. Ntamack will be banned for a few games, but to be honest, he’s not been on top form anyway, so not the end of the world. Though Dupont always seems more comfortable with him there, so that counts for something.

[@philipgalvin1796]

Look it. You could see in the first Netflix series. Gatland was out walking with his wife. I think they were talking about the decision to come back. Reading his face you got the feeling that it didn’t seem quite right.

[@kentendo2672]

Honestly Tim I think Gatland is outdated in the modern era. I'll always be grateful for the success and nothing can take that away. But we need innovation in attack to compete and it's something he's never really had with Wales. A lot of our success was down to a strong defence that caused opposition into errors and a straight forward attack with sprinkles of individual brilliance. The defence is a shadow of what it was and our attack is blunt. Morgan broke the gain line a few times but it means nothing if you're static and lacking support. Its lethargic and rudderless

[@mrwelshmun]

The worst thing about the game yesterday was Wales never looked threatening. To my mind, they never really looked like winning. Couple of opportunities we could have scored but we never looked like a threat. Also, Ben Thomas is a joke at 10

[@brunodesbergesdarz]

If for 20 minutes

[@etiennela4870]

Can’t recall a single moment when Wales was threatening. Felt like the rare moments when something happened, they kicked the ball in France 22 with no chaser. Felt sorry for Wales.

[@finnthomas1235]

I disagree that Wales don’t have the talent or size available. Carre, Grady, Llewellyn, James, Lake, Faletau, Beard, Fender, Anscombe, Griffin (edit) and Morse are all examples of players with either elite talent or size that either aren’t being selected or are unavailable. The coaching, tactics and selection is what’s letting Wales down. Gatland is and always will be one of the greatest coaches of our game, but it is sad to say that his time is up. Another point is that Wales seem to always have terrible “luck” with injuries. This has been going on for so long now that it is not luck or coincidence, there is clearly a huge issue with the conditioning of the players which all leads back to underfunding and lack of top tier infrastructure. Would be interested to hear other people’s takes.

[@robday3968]

Gatland not picking those players you have mentioned, and a whole load of others, is unforgivable. The guy is too arrogant to admit he's wrong. Thomas at ten, I mean, come on ffs. Centre's hopeless, Liam past his best, Adam's not really fit, and don't get me started on assiratti

[@speak_your_truth.]

Most are crap

[@andrewpodd6378]

Beard 😂😂😂😂😂🙈🙈

[@joe90226]

What about Carre, Joe Hawkins, Jarrod Evans, Llewellyn, Callum Sheedy? Morgan Morse all better than current selected players

[@stephendavies-hale6348]

Where is Morgan Morse 😞 he’s a lump, physical, a ball carrier!!!! I just don’t get it..

[@23lnp]

Its all to do with the players. Put whatever manager you want in place, if the players arent up to scratch, you’re pissing in the wind

[@andrewcottle2899]

Can t see France beating Ireland and England away . They both looked strong today .

[@kracao]

Wait and see

[@adogonasidecar1262]

Yes, second row was not perfect for France, but Roumat has not played a game at lock all season. This was his first. He plays backrow in club. He jumped in based on need due Flament's injury. I did not think he was particularly bad, but there was some rust. Yes, the challenge will be much harder against Itoje. There are professional locks available, such as Woki, but Galthie is trying to build and that means not bringing older players back who won't be playing in the next world cup. For a host of reasons, I would have preferred to see Woki on the team as opposed to Auradou (and I would have booed when Auradou walked on the pitch). From a pure rugby point of view, I can't see Auradou being ready to compete with Itoje. Since we are on the topic of forecasting this coming game, though, I am way more concerned about the French scrum. England is going to be heavily favored on that domain.

[@LuisNunes-ps4sl]

Patrice Lagisquet retired after the RWC. We've been missing him in Portugal. One never knows if the head coach job for a tier1 nation would change his mind but I doubt it. Galthié is starting to be contested too. He needs to win competition, or he'll be out. France could use Olivon back, I think. In the line-out and in open play, none of their other choices proved to be better.

[@anthonyrees2945]

You are correct that Wales do no have enough good players in the squad, this is not Gatland’s fault and there are 5 matches in this tournament and they were never going to win this match and there were a few calls that went against them. Not sure what is classed as a forward pass, the wing’s try in the early part of the match was clearly forward. Cannot critical the out side half, there is no class player available at this point in time

[@martynpattinson5270]

Having grown up in the 70s, I’ve always enjoyed Wales defeats but took no pleasure in last nights defeat. Surely the current squad needs players like Llewellyn and Anscombe from Gloucester. As you say Tim, they need to try something different tactically too.

[@adogonasidecar1262]

I am not sure whether this is on Gatland or on the entire Wales Rugby. They don't have the bodies, don't have the talent, they don't have the money, and don't have the structure, starting with youth structure. It does not matter who you will put in to lead them. I hear what you are saying on Portugal and on Lagisquet, but it's not like Portugal won the world cup either. They outperformed their ranking, but that did not bring them even to the current level of Wales. Yes, there are tactical things to do. And maybe a different coach can help there. But the issue is that our expectations for Wales are to compete for the win. If you put Lagisquet's Portugal in the 6 Nations, they would not win a game (and I realize he no longer coaches them). They had a tight game against Belgium over the weekend, that's their level...

[@Oakeybloke]

I didn't catch the game last night, but I am on my way to the pub to meet some mates for today's game, on of which is a Welsh mate who is always saying that he hates kicking and thinks teams shouldn't bother with it... I'll ask how that went 😳 Sad to see Wales in such a dip, you just know they'll be up for it when England come to town, so I won't get too cocky with him!

[@huw3851]

Harmless is harsh, but maybe true. Wales seem mechanical. They line up these predictable structures, attempt to sweep forward but soon stutter to a halt. It's planned and stiff and when you see Ireland do the same it just seems natural and spontaneous. France don't bother with structure - they hang around waiting and then suddenly moving at comfortable speed. I thought Wales did OK at some things. The scrum seemed solid, they were brave and kept on trying - but there is no spontaneity and the kicking, as usual, was straight into French hands.

[@SE7VENprod]

I think gats could serve as a useful asset somewhere else in the WRU managing the pathways ensuring some talent comes through. But coaching wise we need a change and i think he does to this it just hurting the love and legacy we have for gats.

[@EnoreeRiverDrifter]

He's never developed talent. If anything he's squandered it

[@Lukesummers94]

I really don't understand how people can defend Gatland at this point. Take nothing away from his first tenure it was incredible but, I agree. He's done, it happens to everyone at some point. Rob Howley 100% has to go if that's what our attack is going to be like. To save his job he has to win two games this 6 nations for me.

[@druid6722]

Gatland should have gone after RWC 2023, offering him a contract until 2027 is one of the most stupid things the WRU have done and they've done some stupid things in the last 30 years. But, you know that when Gatland does go at the end of this 6N, the replacement head coach will be.. Rob Howley

[@jlsimonable]

Lagisquet.. Good suggestion.

[@reubendobbs8011]

I think as a welsh supporter he has been ground down by the whole set up, Harmless is a good description players are ineffective at the moment

[@cella6495]

You are right. But he is 60 and only Eddie Jones is older at 64. He does not look like he want to be there anymore or enthusiastic about coaching Wales.

[@stuartgriffiths6382]

We are lucky to have Gats! It’s not the coaches that are the problem.

[@davidjones190]

I would be very surprised, if you change the manager, the results will get any better it’s just where Wales is at the moment

[@garjones99]

Yes

[@gutcassidyandthesundancech5925]

Mate I think Welsh rugby is spent, before even mentioning Gats. I’m not sure what any coach could be expected to do with the current state of Welsh rugby as a business and a development system. Going to be a good decade before they’re possible a top team again when you look at the player stocks in the regions.

[@StevenJackson-re6qm]

Thanks Tim. As a neutral, I found the match genuinely painful to watch. “Harmless” was fair. I’m just relieved that Anscombe and Llewellyn at still at Kingsholm not with Gatland.

[@Quin.CR7]

Gatland was spent 5 years ago. Is there no one else in Wales?

[@rhymeocerous]

Maybe Welsh fans might have some insight, but I didn't like the way Gatland hovered around vulture-like during the later part of Wayne Pivac's tenure. Thought it lacked class.

[@ebw9802]

It would be interesting to see if Georgia play Wales in a promotion/relegation playoff at the moment what the outcome would be. Not saying I want Wales out of the 6N, they will be back i believe. But just interested to see the outcome

[@stuartkelly3106]

The 6 nations need a strong Wales.

[@reynaldparisel3852]

And what about the Wales wing Louis Rees-Zammit, who abandoned the Welsh ship ?

[@jeremielambin8690]

I think he felt how down the XV Wales was going.

[@adamvanderriet9669]

Gatland's mistake was coming back, he's ruined his reputation 🤘

[@argy8141]

Personally I think Gats best years were when he was supported by Sean Edwards, a very undervalued coach. He was with Gats at Wasps and early stints at Wales. See the difference Edwards has made in France. I don't think Gats has been helped by the muddled thinking at the WRU and in the Regions. Would anyone else be better? Probably not. He should take the heat for style and tactics and if he doesn't have the personnel with the skill for those tactics, that's definitely on him.

[@Matthew-e5h8m]

If he goes. Mark Jones. Should be the next Welsh coach.

[@Michael-f7i9b]

He did with Ireland too.

[@spudmurphy1]

its hard to tell if he's past it as so many of the team is so young they haven't even gotten to it yet. But I do think Gatland isn't what he once was as a coach.

[@9502937]

Is it true Gatland offered his resignation, and it wasn’t accepted?

[@druid6722]

Allegedly, last year. After losing to Italy I think

[@tristanmaclennan2989]

What was the score France vs Wales?

[@happyhabitpodcast]

Gatland is yesterday's man, like a punch drunk former champion, he doesn't know his time ad a top ranked coach is gone and Wales is suffering. Granted Welsh club rugby is also in disarray too but, the national team need a new voice in the dressingroom having not won now in 2 years under Gatland.

[@cavangibbs]

Andy goode summed it up well gatland can only coach a certain type of player big and physical can't coach skill and panache

[@puccaland]

The problem of Wales is that they are playing old textbook rugby, thus they are very predictable while the game has tremendously evolved those past few years. England made the same mistake but they eventually woke up (the Twickenham beating) and got their act together. They're on the right path.

[@gallois3]

It’s another loss in Rome, Gatland back to NZ beach house by Easter. We need Shaun Edwards back, and Pat Lam as head coach

[@declanfarrell1476]

WRU system has not been fit for purpose because of their system and if they recognise their failures or shortcomings comings they could be great again in a decade or so! Just study the IRFU youth system through from schools, clubs, professional interprovincial to national team and it would be “GAME ON” ! Otherwise they will be second division regardless of coach. So don’t hang the coach when your system isn’t designed to supply him with a fully professional cast of players. It’s sad and we all love Welsh rugby, especially me after over a half century of enjoying their gritt❤️

[@michelnourry4305]

Just to accentuate your point France U20s just put over 60 points against them … that’s the talent shortage in a nutshell !

[@SuperNictastic]

I hope someone at the WRU had the foresight at the after match dinner to have a quiet word in Shaun Edwards ear.