Steve Tandy and Dewi Lake react to Wales’ “disappointing” Six Nations defeat

Saturday, 07 March 2026 at 09:56

byHarry Tovey

Steve Tandy stated that Wales’ latest Six Nations defeat was ‘disappointing’ following a 27-17 loss against Ireland at a chilly Aviva Stadium, Dublin.

It was another spirited Wales performance despite the national side falling to their 15th consecutive Six Nations defeat on Friday evening.

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Pleasingly for head coach Tandy, his side backed up their previous outing against Scotland with a strong showing.

Despite loose-head Rhys Carré magnificently showcasing his speed to race over in the first-half, a late cross from James Botham and seven points from the tee of returning Dan Edwards proved not to be enough for Wales.

This was due to Ireland keeping their hopes of lifting the Six Nations trophy and Triple Crown well and truly alive, as Andy Farrell’s side were made to work for their crucial five points. Jacob Stockdale, Jack Crowley, Jack Conan, and Jamie Osbourne all scored for the hosts.

Scroll down for the five talking points from Steve Tandy’s and Dewi Lake’s post-match press conference.

1. Wales impressed yet again despite extending their losing streak

Following an impressive outing against Scotland at Principality Stadium two weeks ago, Tandy’s side heroically displayed their improvements once again, and impressively did so away from home.

Despite the result extending their drought of losses in the tournament, Tandy stated in the immediate aftermath of the defeat that Wales are vastly improving.

Speaking in his post-match press conference late into Friday evening, the 46-year-old said: ”

“I have massive pride in the boys and the shift they put in.

“I am disappointed we didn’t get anything from the game for the group because I felt we deserved something.

“They showed a lot of fight, and there was a lot of great skill out there as well.

“This group is unbelievable to work with. I know it’s tough for people, everyone wants us to win, but the way the group are developing, and this performance tells you so much about these players,” added Tandy.

2. Carré’s solo effort gave Wales hope

At the end of an enthralling first-half, Saracens’ Carré brought Wales back into the game following a stunning finish.

The loose-head also became the fifth prop in international history to score three tries in three consecutive matches.

On the 28-year-old, who under past regimes was overlooked, Tandy added: “All the plaudits should go to Rhys.

“The way he has come back into the environment and the way he trains as well have been impressive.

“You see the output Rhys has in scoring tries, but there is also the effort he puts in training.

“I think there’s a bigger ceiling in Rhys. He is playing well at the moment, but I believe there’s much more to come, which is exciting.”

3. Wales’ improvements in defence

One of the biggest improvements following shipping 102 points in their opening two contests was Tandy’s side's display in defence. A number of players have shone over the past two rounds of fixtures.

On the defence, where Alex Mann, James Botham and Dafydd Jenkins were his side’s top performers in that area, Tandy added: “Dan (Lydiate) has done a great job around the contact area.

“The physicality they left out in the field was outstanding.

“When we came in the autumn, there were lots of new systems coming in, lots of different language, and the way they have adapted, and developed has been great.

“The mindset of the group has been excellent, but as much as you’ll see a lot of toughness, there was a lot of skill around the defence as well.”

4. “The win is coming”- Lake insists Wales are close to being triumphant

A first Six Nations win since 2023 goes on for Wales, but with Italy heading to the Welsh capital next Saturday, Lake stated that his side, despite the record number of defeats, is close to winning.

“The win is coming, I can feel it, it is just around the corner,” said Lake.

“The development of the team in the past four weeks has been monumental.

“We’re always disappointed to lose, but the positives and the way we played are always something to be proud of.