Scotland are now clear favourites for the championship wooden spoon, and while Williams was disappointed with the outcome, he was not entirely disheartened with what he saw.

"Italy played well, so congratulations to them, said the Australian.

They tried very hard and their performance meant they deserved the victory. I was particularly pleased for John Kirwan. Today proved what a good coach he is.

Im devastated by the result but I felt we did a few good things out there. Our defence was well organised and I felt we did a good job in keeping them out for most of the game.

Problems still remain with our attack and go-forward. We created opportunities but didnt take them once they arose.

And there was a huge turnover of ball - you cant do that if you want to win internationals.

"The Scottish forwards won plenty of ball early on but then found themselves outgunned in the second half as Italys pack assumed full control."

Williams admitted his side need to beef up if they are to compete in the international arena.

We were out-muscled by the Italians, he added. We have to accept that and accept where we are as a team.

In terms of physicality and experience were behind other sides in the tournament and that proves costly away from home.