Wales can make mockery of underdogs tag – Liam
LIAM Williams insists Wales can thrust themselves back into Six Nations title contention by making a mockery of their underdogs tag in Dublin this afternoon.
Despite Ireland being without four injured British and Irish Lions from last summer’s tour of New Zealand and Wales being strengthened by the return of three of their own, the bookmakers are making Joe Schmidt’s men strong favourites for victory at the Aviva Stadium.
Earlier in the week, Wales were being given a staggering 11-point head start, but Warren Gatland and his squad have travelled to the Irish capital with plenty of optimism that they can extend their unbeaten run against their Celtic rivals to four matches.
“The way the boys have been playing and training has been unbelievable,” said the fit-again Williams, one of the three Lions recalled by Gatland for the Aviva Stadium showdown.
“It’s great to be back here in and around the squad.
“I know the aerial game didn’t go too well against England and we know exactly what is going to be coming on the weekend.
“But hopefully, we can stick them under a lot of pressure and come away with the win.”
Ireland yesterday suffered a further injury scare when fly-half Johnny Sexton – such an instrumental cog in their side and a match-winner against France in round one – sat out the early part of their Captain’s Run training session for treatment on a back issue.
Skipper Rory Best allayed concerns by insisting that Sexton took a full part in training later on, but head coach Joe Schmidt can ill afford another of his leading lights being crocked for such a pivotal match in the Championship.
Ireland have won their opening two matches against France and Italy, but if Wales produce the goods against the men in green once again, Gatland’s men will feel they are firmly back in the hunt for Six Nations glory.
“Ireland have made a few forced changes, but they’re at home so it’s going to be a tough test whatever Irish side we face,” insisted skipper Alun Wyn Jones.
“Whoever fills the void has a point to prove after missing out initially and will want to take their opportunity.
“I said before the Scotland game we can’t focus on the people who aren’t there, we need to focus on the ones who are.”
The match will be Gatland’s 100th in charge of Wales.
Liam ready to unleash his frustrations on the Irish: Page 61