Wales fly-half has eyes on the prize

Stephen Jones has underlined the importance of securing victory in Wales’ fourth RBS 6 Nations test against Ireland to give them every chance of challenging for the championship.

After the early setback of defeat to England in Cardiff, Warren Gatland’s team have secured two priceless away wins in Scotland and Italy and the victor of their contest with Declan Kidney’s outfit in a fortnight will likely determine which team is still competing for top spot on the final weekend.  

If England overcome Scotland at Twickenham on the following Sunday it will be impossible for the losing team in the Millennium Stadium clash to compete for the trophy.

For that reason Jones, who will win his 99th test cap if selected, understands the magnitude of the situation and the importance of getting the better of his opposite man, the 106-time capped Ronan O’Gara.

“If we win that we’re three out of four and we’re going out to France with everything to play for,” said Jones.

“We’re fully aware the Irish will be a tough challenge. They’re a good outfit. We all know that.

“They’ll be looking forward to coming to Cardiff and we’ll be looking forward to playing them so it will be a great game, an exciting game,” added the 33-year-old.

Jones made his test debut 18 months before O’Gara in 1998 but the marginally older Irishman has over 100 more points for his country and is on the verge of 1000 points for the Men in Green.

Just as Jones is battling with James Hook and Rhys Priestland for the Wales No 10 jersey, O’Gara is facing strong competition with Jonathan Sexton for the Ireland stand-off shirt and the veteran stand-off was instrumental in last weekend’s 21-18 victory over Scotland.

“He’s very good isn’t he?” said Jones. “He’s a top class player. Our paths have crossed on numerous occasions and he played well on Sunday.

“He’s a good character as well so it’s always healthy [when we come up against each other].”

Andy Powell, Wales’ No 8, reiterated his fly-half’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of O’Gara for the Irish but underlining the confidence in the Welsh setup that gives them every chance of securing the win.

“They’ve been playing quite well and had a good win at the weekend against Scotland,” said Powell. “They probably should have beaten France as well.

“I think if they had brought O’Gara on a bit sooner they probably would have won that game.

“It will be a tough game but there is a confidence in this camp now.”

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Stephen Jones and Andy Powell were speaking on behalf of the Wales Rugby Team at a unique sweat session to launch Powerade ION4, a new sports drink which helps replenish four of the minerals lost in sweat. For more information visit www.poweradegb.com

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