Wales dragged themselves back into the game after being 17 points down with a penalty try and a score from second row Benji Williams. They were also boosted with Thomas Moukoro, and Samuel M’Foudi getting sent to the sin bin giving Wales a two man advantage.
But the hosts failed to capitalise on their extra numbers with France running out 47-15 winners.
“I think the first five-10 minutes after half time was a game changer,” said Hayward. “They were down to 13 then 14 men but they ended up scoring points. We should have taken the game by the scruff of the neck because that’s what we spoke about at half time.
“We wanted to impose ourselves on them but we didn’t do that. Credit to them – they are a quality side, and I’m sure our boys will learn a lot from this experience.”
Throughout the game Wales struggled to cope with the defensive line speed the visitors brought to the game, while they were also extremely physical. But Hayward singled out the scrum as a positive from Wales’ performance.
“We struggled to cope with their line speed,” said Hayward. “We can’t play around a team with line speed like that.
“We tried to play around it while the boys also tried to play through it but we haven’t got the power to play through their line speed. We had two 17-year-old boys in the pack today.
“It wasn’t for a lack of effort we just couldn’t cope with their line speed and their defence was exceptionally good. Our scrum was exceptionally good.
“Throughout the championship France have had the best scrum but we competed with them there so that’s a plus for us. Overall we are very disappointed with the score line but you’ve got to give a lot of credit to France because they are a great side.”
Wales finish their Under 20s Six Nations campaign with another home clash against Italy at Colwyn Bay next weekend. And Hayward insists it’s a game Wales must win.
“My initial thoughts are we have one game to go and we have some players back like Alex Mann and Tom Cowan,” said Hayward. “I’m sure we can end the campaign with a win.”
