Wales player ratings: Bad day at the office as Warren Gatland’s men open Six Nations in disappointing fashion

Following a heavy 34-10 defeat to Ireland in their Six Nations Test at the Principality Stadium on Saturday, here are the player ratings for Wales.

15 Liam Williams: The odd brain fade but did well under the high ball and provided a threat with ball in hand in the second half. 6

14 Josh Adams: Made no impact during the game. Was also unable to put the Irish catchers under enough pressure in the chasing game. 5

13 George North: Tried manfully but another who struggled to get involved in the contest as Ireland dominated the forward exchanges. 5

12 Joe Hawkins: A good effort from the centre, who certainly has something about him. Took some nice lines and has some good skills. 7

11 Rio Dyer: Lively, especially in the second period due to his pace and footwork, which was a threat to the Irish defence. Was Wales’ most dangerous back. 7

10 Dan Biggar: A poor day at the office for the fly-half. Outplayed by Johnny Sexton, whose decision-making was far sharper. Improved in the second period, but he won’t be happy with his efforts on Saturday. 4

9 Tomos Williams: Not helped by his team’s ill-discipline which gave him little ball to work with. Kicking was accurate enough but dealt with well by the visitors. 5

Forwards bullied by Ireland

8 Taulupe Faletau: Glimpses of his excellence in the second period but one of the bigger transgressors on the discipline front. 4

7 Justin Tipuric: Has enjoyed a fine season for club and country but another player who failed to make an impact against a superb Irish outfit. 5

6 Jac Morgan: Grew in influence as the game went on and had some good moments both sides of the ball. Wales’ best forward. 7

5 Alun Wyn Jones: Worked hard but outplayed by the Ireland locks. 6

4 Adam Beard: See Faletau. Didn’t really adapt to the referee, with his penalties putting Wales on the back foot. 4

3 Tomas Francis: Apart from one scrum, the Welsh held up well in this area of the set-piece, but was replaced at half-time after his lack of impact in the loose. 5

2 Ken Owens (c): Frustrating day for the captain. The effort was there but the execution was not. A couple of poor throws in good attacking positions cost the hosts. 5

1 Gareth Thomas: Sent into reverse initially but competed well after that and came out with some credit. 6

Replacements: The bench certainly made a difference with the two props and Tommy Reffell the standouts, but they were left with too much to do in this Six Nations opener. 7

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