Shane Williams thrills in his final appearance for Wales

Wales winger Shane Williams scored with his final touch in international rugby, but he bowed out on a losing note after Australia overcame a sluggish start to win 24-18 in a one-off Test at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

"It's been a tough week," said Williams, as the 34 year old was unable to stem the flood of tears during a pitchside interview, discussing the end of his 11-year international career.

"It's been a privilege to have had the chance to play for Wales. I've had the time of my life. I'm going to miss it, it's been a great journey. I've enjoyed every minute of it ... the ups and downs."

The Wallabies produced a strong second-half showing to again defeat Warren Gatland's side, six weeks after their 21-18 victory in their Rugby World Cup third-place play-off in October.

Williams, his country's all-time record try scorer, took his tally to 58 with the last-gasp touchdown on his 87th and final appearance, but it was an otherwise disjointed display from the hosts.

Wales led 6-3 at the break but the game quickly changed after full-back Leigh Halfpenny was sin-binned nine minutes after the restart.

Australia took the game by the scruff of the neck as Will Genia, Lachie Turner and Berrick Barnes crossed for quick scores to subdue a home crowd hoping to give Williams a winning send off.

Rhys Priestland crossed for the first Welsh try, but the Wallabies, who thrashed the Barbarians 60-11 at Twickenham last week, held firm until Williams, one of the most exciting wingers of his generation, raised the roof when he burst through in the final seconds.

"It's meant everything [to play for Wales]," Williams said. "Growing up as a child that's the only thing you want to do. I have been very privileged and lucky to have that chance. I've had the best time of my life.

"Every time I pull on this jersey it's the best feeling ever."

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