Skipper Ryan Jones believes Wales are 'where they deserve to be'

Ryan Jones insists Wales believe they can beat Ireland to the Triple Crown.

Grand Slam-chasing Wales are the only unbeaten side remaining in the 2008 Six Nations as captain Jones' men beat Italy 47-8 and England shocked France.

Victory in Wales' Triple Crown showdown in Ireland would set up a Grand Slam clincher against France in Cardiff.

"We've always had a huge belief," said Jones. "That's what's got us the victories so far and we go to Ireland extremely confident."

Highlights: Wales 47-8 Italy

Interview: Wales coach Warren Gatland

Wales have beaten Ireland just once in eight years but memorably that was when Jones inspired Mike Ruddock's team to secure their first Grand Slam for 27 years in 2005.

"Hopefully it'll go our way again," said the Lions star, looking ahead to the 8 March showdown in Dublin.

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The Ospreys number eight still boasts an unbeaten record as Wales skipper following an impressive three wins out of three in this year's Championship.

Wales backed up victories over England and Scotland with a record 47-8 Six Nations win over the Italians at The Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

Wales, though, had stuttered to a 13-8 half-time lead.

But the hosts scored 34 unanswered points, inspired by two-try heroes Lee Byrne and Shane Williams, in a stunning second-half display.

This competition could come down to points difference Wales coach Warren Gatland

"The lads were fantastic," added Jones, whose Wales are on course for a second Grand Slam in four years.

"We have given everything for the three games and we have got what we deserved."

Wales will travel to Dublin knowing that even if they lose, they will be playing for the title on the final day of the championship, when they host France, such is their advantageous points differential.

Wales' points difference of plus 61 is 40 better than Ireland (+21), 46 more than France (+15) and 53 up on England (+8).

"The second half became really important for us because this competition could come down to points difference," said coach Warren Gatland.

"I experienced it twice with Ireland. Two years in a row we finished on the same points with the winners of the championship but didn't win it because our points difference wasn't as good as England one year and France another.

"That was a lot of the thinking about it - to play well and get a lot of points."

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