‘We have to keep producing the great moments like this’

Mar 17 2008 South Wales Echo

MIKE Philips has challenged the Welsh squad to show the world they are not just one-hit wonders.

The scrum-half, who earned his 33rd cap in the 29-12 Grand Slam-clinching win over France, finally cemented his place in Wales’ starting line-up during the Six Nations ahead of rival Dwayne Peel.

Phillips endured the frustration of sitting on the bench when Wales last clinched the championship and was often a peripheral figure under previous coach Gareth Jenkins.

But now the Ospreys man has tasted international success, he is determined to be part of the team which he believes can go on to even greater things.

“This could just be the start,” said Phillips.

“We’ve got a great squad and we’ve really got to move on from here now, next year and beyond.

“It’s no good just winning it once and forgetting about it.

“You’ve got to keep on achieving and producing great moments like this.”

After being pegged back to 9-9 early in the second half, Wales for forced to dig deep in search of their first home win over France in the Six Nations.

But Phillips revealed that seeing how exhausted Les Bleus looked spurred his side to victory.

He said: “Mr Gatland has been telling us to go through that pain and that we can get our goal in the end, and we just wanted to keep working.

“We could see they were off their legs, even in the first half.

“They had their hands on their knees, and we just had to keep digging, and in the end we scored because of that.

“It was the hardest match of the tournament – by the end, I couldn’t even celebrate properly.

“It was really tough, I couldn’t feel my legs and my ribs have gone.”

Phillips hailed man-of-the-match Martyn Williams, who capped his 81st cap with a try.

“We’re delighted he decided to come back after deciding to retire from international rugby after the World Cup,” said 25-year-old Phillips.

“When you’re on the field with him, some of his touches are class.

“He’s a tremendously talented player, just a legend.”

He added: “This is without doubt the biggest moment of my career.

“It’s a fantastic achievement from all the boys, and it’s been great to be part of it.

“It’s been a huge effort from everyone, the whole management and squad, and all the hard work has paid off.”

simon.kendal-williams@mediawales.co.uk