American Marconi Wireless News - Conan expects 'galvanised' Wales, Reffell keen to change outside noise

Conan, named as starter after Caelan Doris was ruled out with injury, said the run of 14 straight Test defeats would be "unbelievably tough for the Welsh lads".

"They'll be galvanised by a new coach coming in, everything that's gone on the last couple of weeks," he said in reference to Warren Gatland's departure and Matt Sherratt being named as his temporary replacement.

"They're a nation that gets behind Welsh rugby incredibly well, and playing over there with the roof closed is going to be special."

Wales captain Jac Morgan, moved to blindside flanker to accommodate Reffell on the openside, said the team had "big motivation" after being given little chance to dent Ireland's defence of their Six Nations title.

"Everyone is writing us off in a way, so it is an opportunity for us to be confident in ourselves, create an atmosphere within the group and perform to the best we can be and hopefully prove people wrong," Morgan said.

"We are a team that always gives 100 per cent effort, but we need to be a bit smarter as well.

"We know how tough Ireland are, and it is going to be a hell of a challenge and we need to front-up."

- 'New ideas' -

Reffell added: "Rugby is a massive part of Welsh culture and everyone definitely wants to see the team do well. We really want to change things and go in the right direction.

"There is obviously outside noise for a reason, so the only way we can change that is through our performances on the pitch. We would like to put an improved performance in."

Interim Wales boss Sherratt has had just four sessions with the squad, but that has included "a lot of change and new ideas", according to Reffell.

"We have had to try and wrap our heads around that as quickly as possible.

"We have said that we've got to back ourselves and be brave. Mistakes will happen, but it is how we rectify those mistakes and move on to the next job.

"Matt has come in with fresh ideas and given us the licence to be brave. He wants us to have a go, but doesn't want us to be reckless.

"There is a plan in place, but we are at the Principality Stadium and we have to go out and enjoy it as well."

Ireland have beaten Wales seven times in the last eight meetings.

Simon Easterby, Ireland's head coach after Andy Farrell was named boss of the British and Irish Lions for this summer's Australia tour, made seven changes to the team that beat Scotland 32-18.

"We have made a few changes to the squad this week, some of which were enforced, and we're confident that the 23 we have selected are primed and ready to go," Easterby said.

L.Miller--AMWN