Warren Gatland believes Wales can lift themselves after the England loss
Coach Warren Gatland blamed kicking errors for Wales' 26-19 opening Six Nations defeat to England at the Millennium Stadium.
"I said to them afterwards that they need to look at themselves," Gatland told BBC Sport Wales.
"I thought the effort was huge and I can't complain about the effort out there that was put in.
"But we still need to be very, very self-critical on areas that we can still improve in our game."
Wales have now failed to win in their last eight outings, losing seven, and the latest defeat will not help preparations for this year's World Cup in New Zealand.
Chris Ashton claimed both of England's tries as they led from the outset, although Wales did get within touching distance with the help of Morgan Stoddart's try.
"We're disappointed because we felt there was an opportunity there but there were a couple of errors... in the first half when we had England under pressure," added Gatland.
I don't think England will go through this competition unbeaten, so if we can win the next two games, hopefully that puts us back into contention
Warren Gatland
"In fairness they soaked up the pressure in the first 10 minutes and have taken the opportunity to score a try.
"We probably kicked away too much in the first half. That was the message at half-time. Keep the ball in hand, play some rugby and put them under pressure.
"We need to keep reminding the players about having the confidence to keep playing rugby and making sure we control our own destiny.
"Sometimes we don't do that because we keep making a few errors and those are the things from a coaching point of view that are frustrating.
"We need to be hard on ourselves and convert those opportunities and it's the small margins that are going to give us that victory.
"I still think there's a lot for us to build on from tonight."
Wales' next two games are on the road starting with a tough trip to Scotland next week, followed by a visit to Italy two weeks later.
"It's important for us next week with Scotland away to get a win, then we've got to believe we can win the next two games," said Gatland.
"I don't think England will go through this competition unbeaten, so if we can win the next two games, hopefully that puts us back into contention for the championship."
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