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RUGBY UNION: Warren Gatland's mind games test Ireland, Wales

Wales face arguably their toughest encounter so far in this Six Nations today when the visitors' quest for a Grand Slam continues against Ireland at Croke Park.

Yet to listen to Wales' former Ireland coach Warren Gatland, all the pressure is on the hosts, who are one of several sides in the chasing pack with a shot at winning the Championship.

But Wales, the only unbeaten side in this year's Six Nations, must know the title -- where they have a huge points difference advantage following their thrashing of Italy last time out -- is theirs to lose.

Not that Gatland acknowledged the point.

"Ireland are the favorites, but they struggle to handle the tag of favoritism," said the New Zealander, axed by Ireland seven years ago and replaced by his then deputy Eddie O'Sullivan, accused of ousting Gatland, who has been in charge ever since.

Gatland said this week he was happy to let bygones be bygones but nevertheless, typically, added he'd been "burnt" by his experience of working with O'Sullivan.

Wales, with wing Shane Williams providing the cutting edge to a gifted back division, have been the team to watch this season.

But there is a feeling that, with England losing their heads during Gatland's first match in charge and Scotland and Italy not putting up the fiercest of fights they've yet to be tested fully.

Mike Phillips, who often has to play second fiddle to former All Black Justin Marshall at the Welsh region, has displaced Dwayne Peel after starring off the bench against Italy in another example this season of Gatland's willingness to change a winning team.

"I have sat on the bench more than anyone in the last couple of years," Phillips said. "It does get frustrating. I have been given a fair opportunity to show what I can do and you know that if you play well these coaches will reward you."

Phillips' dig at the old regime of ex-Wales coach Gareth Jenkins was another example of the big role played by personal history in the run-up to today's match.

Now supporters of both sides will hope it is their team who can focus on the task at hand.
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