Warren Gatland was left to reflect on another painful defeat as Wales went down 25-16 against Australia in Sydney and suffered an eighth successive Test match loss.

Wales have not won a Test since they defeated World Cup pool opponents Georgia nine months ago.

And although they had their moments at the Allianz Stadium, it was ultimately an all-too-familiar story.

“I understand you are going to get pressure from people talking about a losing run at the moment,” said Wales head coach Gatland.

“But in that run we have been in games, been in front and easily could have won a few, and tonight was the same.

“A bit more accuracy, decisions which go your way and you win. Those are big moments that we need to learn from to make sure that in those tight matches where it is an arm-wrestle you end up on the winning side.

“I think we hurt ourselves with a number of turnovers, and the penalty count early on. Soft penalties hurt us.”

Wales had a second-half try from replacement James Botham disallowed for obstruction.

“We are not getting any 50-50 calls and we just have to work through that,” said Gatland.

“There were some real positives out there in terms of what we are trying to do. We have been upfront in what we are trying to do in building this team.

“I hope people can see some development in terms of the players and experience with what we are trying to do towards the next Rugby World Cup.”

Wales might have shown flashes to give hope to Gatland but captain Dewi Lake was frustrated at another missed opportunity.

The Ospreys hooker said: “We have to learn how to win games, to put points on the board and see games out.

“Credit to Australia, they put points on the board and made us chase the game. A couple (of opportunities) went begging, and that is the difference on the scoreboard.”

Wales now head to Melbourne for the second Test, and Lake added: “I don’t think this is a squad that needs galvanising, to be honest.

“We are ready to put everything on the line for each other to get the win for everyone back home and for the jersey. It is more about learning quickly and how to see these games out.”