WARREN Gatland admitted that Wales won ugly but was pleased that his charges dug deep for a win against France that secured second place in the Six Nations.

An early try by Liam Williams and nine points from the boot of Leigh Halfpenny earned a 14-13 success at Principality Stadium.

Victory meant that Wales went back above Scotland, who had earlier won in Rome, to finish as runners-up behind Grand Slam-winning Ireland.

The hosts needed a backs-to-the-wall performance to edge out a powerful French side and the head coach was pleased with the defensive steel.

“It wasn’t pretty but we came here to do a job, which was to win and finish second,” said Gatland.

“There were too many turnovers but we showed some great character against a good French team. After a six-day turnaround (from Italy) today wasn’t about the performance.

“Today wasn’t brilliant but what is pleasing is that we have exposed some players to the highest level and we are in a stronger position for 2019 than we were for 2015.

“The depth that we have added has put us in a good position, we are pretty comfortable with where we are as a squad.”

Gatland revealed he is likely to leave the majority of his Lions at home this summer for the tour that sees them face South Africa in America before two Tests in Argentina.