British and Irish Lions

Saturday's 25-24 defeat to Ireland was absolutely heartbreaking as a Welshman but you have to say it was a tremendous game of rugby. When Stephen Jones converted that injury-time drop goal, I think everyone thought it was all over - everyone except one man. For Ronan O'Gara to respond with another drop goal under that amount of pressure was just incredible and very professional. The Welsh players certainly looked crestfallen at the final whistle.

I hope, though, that they do not let their confidence drop because of the result. I thought that Wales deserved to win the game, and the Irish were in a lot of trouble during the second half. As it is, they go off to a Grand Slam decider and Wales are still facing the Wooden Spoon. That, unfortunately, is the nature of sport.

It would not be harsh on Wales if they ended up bottom of the RBS 6 Nations table - they have been desperately poor at times, especially against Italy and Scotland, and I do believe that you make your own luck. The one positive is that the Welsh have a better points difference than both the Italians and the Scots, and a win in Paris might just get them out of trouble.

Once again, Steve Hansen is having to deal with injury problems and hooker Jonathan Humphreys will play no part against the French. He was brought in as captain for one reason - to toughen up the side. His leadership qualities are excellent and he is always prepared to give blood and guts. His absence, though, gives others a chance to get hold of the number two jersey.

Wales can afford to go to the Stade de France with confidence after the Ireland game. We actually have a good record in Paris and have won our last two matches there, which is quite unbelievable. France were awesome in the early stages of their win over Italy but John Kirwan's side caused them problems after the break and exposed some weaknesses. They do, however, have some scintillating players and an abundance of pace throughout the team.

A lot of responsibility rests on the tight five again. However well they competed against Ireland, they will have to play even better against the French. The key thing is that Wales ensure France's back row cannot create havoc, as they have a habit of doing. The likes of Magne and Betsen can be devastating runners and like to get into space - Wales must force them to play an orthodox game among the forwards by keeping it tight.

The line-out is still an area of concern for Wales, as it has been for a while. We cannot afford to give France easy opportunities and simple ball early on. But I am hoping the players can spring a surprise. Wales have never lost at the Stade de France and a continuation of that record would at least give us a positive end to what has been a difficult tournament.

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.

Tom Youngs has enjoyed a remarkable rise to the top of the British & Irish game but he won't be resting on his laurels ahead of his first Lions adventure.