Western Mail columnist Gwyn Jones reflects on Wales' opening Six Nations victory over Ireland.
"Every time I meet the players in the flesh I am reminded just how big they are. The small screen does not do them justice.
"They are impressive specimens who have a huge physical presence and who carry themselves with quiet confidence.
"I don’t know if the few days of fitness work done in Poland provided the extra bit of stamina that sealed the win, but I think the players believed it was and ultimately it’s the identical thing.
"Ireland have some excellent regional players but this was a step up again, this was Test match rugby and it seems that the Welsh players are better able to not only make that leap, but to jump to a higher level again than their opponents.
"Whether it’s the honour of pulling on the red shirt or the inspiration of Gatland and co, Wales raised the quality, the intensity and the skill levels and were by some way the better side."
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