Josh Adams insists the Wales squad are full of belief as they prepare for a crucial Rugby World Cup clash against Fiji on Wednesday.
The Cardiff Blues wing has retained his starting spot for the Oita showdown, as head coach Warren Gatland keeps faith with his backline for a third successive game.
Adams says the team were delighted to seal the victory over Australia last week, but insists they’re equally aware of the threat posed from the Fijians.
“We had belief from day one and before we even stepped on the field. Australia are the other Tier 1 nation so arguably it was the biggest game,” said the Welsh international.
“But the way the Fijians showed up in the first half against Australia means they’re a massive threat to us. We are not looking any further than them.
“It was nice to get the win. Previously we might have lost that close to the end.
“It seems we’ve always drawn Australia in World Cups gone by and always lost narrowly, so it’s brilliant to get one over on them. It was 32 years so we were due one.”
“It’s similar to the game against Georgia – a great first half, really clinical, and then we took our foot off the throat in the second half. That’s definitely a work-on for us.
“We showed great defence at the end and great resolve. We probably conceded too many points in the second half which let them get too close to us. We had an 18-point lead.
“We are really happy to get the win – it was a massive pool game for us. We have two big ones to go.”
Adams also praised the motivation from head coach Gatland, who has instilled confidence in the group.
“Warren is a motivator. He talks when he has to, but doesn’t talk too much. Sometimes you wonder what he’s going to say and he doesn’t say anything,” Adams said.
“That works and he always fills you with confidence and makes you believe. He does a fantastic job in getting us motivated and ready for games. I am glad we could repay some faith in the coaches.”