Wales scrum-half Mike Phillips has promised his team will take the fight to world champions South Africa at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.
Phillips was one of the British and Irish Lions' best performers against South Africa last year as his aggressive, all-action style rattled the Springboks.
The 27-year-old returned to Wales with his reputation enhanced but he is well aware that a repeat display will be needed to help his country achieve a famous win this weekend.
"You have to stand up to South Africa. They are very confrontational and they like to take charge of the contact area," Phillips said.
"They like to get in your face - they are all confident guys.
But we worked them really hard on the Lions tour last summer.
"In all the Test matches they were out on their feet at the end, and I think that is what we have to try to do with Wales this weekend."
Phillips was hailed as one of the best in his position in the world after the Lions' tour, yet he acknowledges he has plenty of improvements to make before he deserves that accolade.
"Even though I joke about being the best in the world, I know that I have faults," he said.
"I am always learning, trying to improve myself every game I play. I am always looking for that 10-out-of-10 performance, and to be honest I am always quite hard on myself.
"The Lions tour was a memorable time for me - a dream come true.
It's nice to think back and recall that we finished on a winning note by winning the third Test.
"We've spoken about using it as a springboard, and I would like to think we can carry that through into Saturday's game.
"I've got to say I am still pinching myself to think I went on that tour and did quite well.
"Even now, I think back to what we achieved and it gives me a good feeling.
"I know we lost the series 2-1, but it was about more than that.
We took a hell of a lot of pride from the way we performed against a world champion Springbok side."
Wales have only beaten South Africa on one previous occasion - 11 years ago at a partially-built Millennium Stadium - but Saturday's encounter sees them go in as favourites to repeat that feat.
The Springboks are minus several players involved in last weekend's all-South African Super 14 final between the Bulls and Stormers, so Wales know a golden opportunity has presented itself.
"I just think there is a buzz about us at the moment, and long may it continue," Phillips said.
"South Africa are a difficult team to break down, but I think we can rise to the challenge."
.jpg)
