Six Nations 2024: Rio Dyer says Wales not happy with plucky losers tag
- Published
Wales have lost 10 of their last 11 matches in the Six Nations
Rio Dyer insists Wales' players are not satisfied with being regarded as the plucky losers of the Six Nations.
Wales head coach Warren Gatland said his young side could take a "huge amount" from the 31-7 defeat by Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.
It was Wales' third successive defeat in this year's tournament after they received praise following narrow losses to Scotland and England.
But wing Dyer said Wales know the "bottom line" in Test rugby is to win.
"Yes there were positives [against Ireland] but in the end, we still lost and by a big scoreline, and that's echoed through all the games," he said.
"Over the last three games there have been different kinds of positives around the learning from each one, but no matter what, we want to win, that's the bottom line.
"That's why you play rugby, to get those accomplishments as a group.
"Even though we are young, we're chasing those wins. That's the reason we're here. It's not just about the amazing accomplishment of putting on the jersey, it's about getting wins in that jersey."
Wales frustrated the defending Six Nations champions for long periods at the Aviva Stadium and came within inches of a second try when trailing 17-7, before Ireland struck twice in the second half.
Seven of the Wales starting team had fewer than 16 caps, and 12 of the matchday squad had fewer than 20.
They included Mackenzie Martin, who came off the bench for his international debut.
Martin's Wales bow followed first caps for full-back Cameron Winnett, flanker Alex Mann and prop Archie Griffin earlier in the tournament, as a new-look team tries to learn fast on the job.
"We are young and learning but we're still very harsh on ourselves," he said.
"Each individual is putting pressure on themselves to be that top international player and whether that's someone starting as a new cap or an old cap, everyone has that drive."
Wales have two home games in the space of six days to claim a first win of the campaign, starting when they face a France side reeling from the 13-13 draw at home to Italy on Sunday, 10 March.
The Italians head to Cardiff six days later.
"We know what is coming from France with a big forward game and flair players behind," said Dyer.
"So we'll keep working hard and keep our foot on the gas to give our best performance, not just for the fans but for ourselves as well."