Trip to Dublin requires a ‘massive step up’ despite Pivac’s bright start

WALES 42 0

over the Barbarians in November by launching their title defence with a 42-0 drubbing of Italy.

Pivac’s players now head to Dublin in search of a record ninth successive Six Nations win, although Ireland were the last team to beat them in the tournament almost two years ago.

“It is certainly going to be a massive step up from where we’ve been,” Pivac said. “It has been quite a nice start in terms of the Barbarians and getting a lot of firsts out of the way, and then having this home match and getting five points.

That has been pleasing but we are under no illusions it’s a real step up now.

“A lot of hard work needs to be done because the performance against Italy certainly wasn’t perfect, even though we had a good-looking scoreline.”

Wales clinched the Grandslamwhenthey met Ireland in Cardiff last March, winning 25-7 after a dominant display in which their opponents were outclassed.

Asked if the Irish will be hurting from that result, Pivac added: “All players will remember the last time they played against a certain opposition.

“If you don’t have your best day at the office, you always want to improve on it next time around and I’m sure they will be no different.

“It’s a new competition with new coaches on both teams.” Pivac’s options next weekend should be strengthened by centre Owen Watkin, scrum-half Gareth Davies and hooker Elliot Dee all being available following injuries. But one of his biggest selection debates could revolve around Saracens centre Nick Tompkins, pictured, who delivered an outstanding performance off the bench against Italy, which was highlighted by a brilliant solo try.

He presented a powerful case and Pivac said: “He was given an opportunity and he took it with both hands. You love to see that on debut.

“The try he got, we were seeing that at training with his footwork and acceleration. It was pleasing that 68,500 got to see it.”