Tandy enjoyed an autumn win against Japan but was agonisingly close to a first statement victory of his reign.

Wales led at half-time for the first time since under his charge and were 20-5 and 23-12 in front at times of the second half. But ultimately they were left with just a losing bonus-point.

“I’m bitterly disappointed not to win the game but have massive pride in the group,” said Tandy.

“That was a step in the right direction but we’ve got to be better next time. There was a lot to like in the first half with how we attacked the game. That was excellent.”

After French fans took over Principality Stadium in round two, Tandy hailed the impact of the home backing from a crowd of 70,649 inside the Principality Stadium.

“The support today was incredible. There are lots of questions asked about the crowds, but they were unbelievable,” said Tandy.

“Everyone felt it. The players gave them something to cheer about, but ultimately they got behind the team. It’s a snapshot of what we want to be.”

Scarlets pair Taine Plumtree and Sam Costelow look unlikely to play again in the tournament.

Back-row Plumtree (shoulder) and fly-half Costelow (lower leg) are to undergo scans on Monday.

“Sam doesn’t look good,” said Tandy.

“He’s been through a lot in his Wales career with not being involved in the autumn but we backed him to come back in and he really took that opportunity.

“He was fantastic with the way he drove the team forward in that first half. It’s such a shame for him that it ended with injury.”