Wales started like a team low on confidence after seven consecutive Test defeats at the Millennium Stadium, trailing 20-0 before the clock had ticked around to the half-hour mark.

It got worse before it got better early in the second half as a Brian O’Driscoll try helped make it 30-3 before the home side stirred into life.

Tries from Alex Cuthbert, Leigh Halfpenny and Craig Mitchell helped ensure the final score was a lot more flattering for Warburton’s side however after claiming the Grand Slam last year it was a far from ideal start.

The trip to France for their second RBS 6 Nations clash of the year will offer no respite however Warburton is adamant his side should not be fearful of les Bleus.

“We must start well next week, and if we can, and then we play well for the majority of the game, we’ll have a great chance,” Warburton said.

“We just have to pick ourselves up now, look forward to France and try to get a great win out there.

“It’s tough having lost eight games on the bounce but there were times in the second half when we did exceptionally well.

“I thought our character was great in the second half but what happened before that really punished us.

“We told ourselves we had to start well because it’s key in international rugby, but it didn’t happen.”