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Gatland Eyes Southern Success 4 views 0 Images
24 October 2013 by Englandfan
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Wales head coach, Warren Gatland, has called on his side to end their dismal run against the southern hemisphere's giants this autumn, echoing the sentiments of many fans who bet on rugby.
The New Zealander has enjoyed plenty of success against European sides since he took the Wales job in 2008. He has led his adopted country to three Six Nations titles, including two Grand Slams, while he can also boast a World Cup semi-final appearance.
However, he has overseen 20 defeats in 21 meetings with southern hemisphere opposition in that time. That run includes a succession of narrow defeats by Australia, although Gatland gained sweet revenge as he coached the British and Irish Lions to a 2-1 series win Down Under in the summer.
Gatland's attention is now firmly fixed on Wales and the upcoming internationals, the first of which is against South Africa on November 9. Clashes with Argentina and Tonga follow before the Wallabies travel to Cardiff on November 30.
"At times, we probably haven't performed as well as we would have liked against some of the southern hemisphere teams. That is about the development of the side," Gatland said.
"Hopefully, there is enough experience now so that we can make an impact against the southern hemisphere sides over the next couple of years. That's a task."
Gatland's men lost all four Tests last November before defying the rugby betting odds and winning the Six Nations. He said while that is "the biggest tournament for us", Wales are determined to show their best form over the next month or so.
"We have to go in with that belief and confidence," Gatland added. "It is not a matter of hoping you play well on the day and catch them on a bad day. We know if we go in and play well, we are good enough to win."
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