Sean Lynn praised his team’s resilience even though it was a familiar losing feeling for Wales against Scotland at the start of the Women’s Six Nations.
Lynn's tenure as Wales head coach began with a hard-fought 24-21 defeat to the Scots in Edinburgh.
But despite the loss, Lynn remains optimistic, emphasising the positives from his squad’s performance.
"Yeah we lost, but the resilience they showed and that belief when we went 12 points down, that's what I wanted," Lynn reflected.
"I can't coach that fight in us. There were some tears out there, and those tears were because they care."
Heading into the World Cup countdown, Wales have now lost three successive games to Scotland.
Wales made a strong start with Carys Phillips powering over for the first try of the Lynn era, converted by Keira Bevan.
However, the Scots responded, taking a 10-7 lead into halftime after a penalty from Helen Nelson and a try from Sarah Bonar.
The home side dominated territory and had another score ruled out by the TMO for obstruction.
Discipline proved costly for Wales, as number eight Georgia Evans received two yellow cards - the first for collapsing a maul and the second for a high tackle - leading to her dismissal.
READ MORE: Wales Scotland Women’s Six Nations
Scotland’s Evie Gallagher also saw red after a bunker review upgraded her yellow for a dangerous cleanout.
"I went up to Georgia Evans at the end, gave her a massive hug and just said 'these things happen and move on,'" said Lynn, refusing to dwell on the setback.
Scotland extended their lead through a well-worked Leah Bartlett try, before Wales fought back with scores from Abbie Fleming and Gwenllian Pyrs.
Despite their efforts, Lynn’s side fell just short but secured a losing bonus point.
READ MORE: Sean Lynn Blends Old With New As He Seeks Six Nations Winning Blend
The head coach remained encouraged by the contributions of new faces, including front-rowers Maisie Davies and Jenni Scoble, as well as lock Alaw Pyrs, who adapted well after stepping up from the Celtic Challenge.
"That's when you talk about pride in the family," Lynn stated.
"We will turn every negative into a positive and we'll grow and grow and grow."
There was also a welcome return for Kelsey Jones, Donna Rose, and Pyrs, all of whom made an impact from the bench.
While acknowledging areas for improvement, Lynn was adamant his side are on the right track.
"It's a big learning curve for us and I was super impressed how we made it one that we let get away," he said.
"There's things we need to be working on, but Rome wasn't built in a day."
