Martyn Williams reflects on a record defeat to the All Blacks

Wales have lost their last nine games, culminating in a record 55-3 defeat to New Zealand in Hamilton.

Since Steve Hansen took over from Graham Henry in February, 2002, Wales have won just four of 19 games - against Italy, Romania, Fiji and Canada (all on home soil).

Both Martyn Williams and Steve Hansen blame the structure that has nurtured the current generation of Welsh internationals, but find hope in the reform of the game that will see regional sides competing next season.

Match report: New Zealand 55-3 Wales

"We've changed our structure and if the boys can play regular games at a higher level we will improve," Williams told BBC Wales Sport after the New Zealand defeat.

We are eight years behind and the players who played for Wales against New Zealand are never going to see all the benefits of professionalism Wales coach Steve Hansen

"There were guys out there who have played 35 games this season and are then sent to challenge the world's best in their own back yard.

"New Zealand are used to playing at that pace in every game - there are no easy matches.

"In the end it was just 40 minutes too far for us."

Hansen proud of team

Williams' views fitted the party line, as extolled by coach Steve Hansen.

"What happened against New Zealand is the result of one group of people getting the right coaching in the right environment with the right support from the age of 14," he said.

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"That's not happening at our place. We are standing up and changing that, but we are eight years behind and the players who played for Wales against New Zealand are never going to see all the benefits of professionalism.

"I just hope that the administrators in Wales look at this and realise how far we have got to go.

"I hope the changes that are finally taking place in Wales will see us get back among the elite again."

Despite the pessimistic short-term forecast, Williams still feels Wales can make an impact in October's World Cup in Australia.

"We've come together as a squad off the field and there are a lot of class players left at home ready to come back in," said Williams.

"It's a brilliant squad to be involved in - I just feel sorry for the younger guys who have been working so hard but don't know what success tastes like yet."