Seize Grand Slam moment - Gatland

Mar 10 2008 by Simon Thomas, Western Mail

WARREN GATLAND has told his Welsh players to seize the moment and make history with a second Grand Slam in the space of four years.

Gatland’s men know a Millennium Stadium triumph over France on Saturday will put the seal on a magical Six Nations.

The Wales coach will spend the next 24 hours pondering his team selection for the big game, with James Hook for Stephen Jones at fly-half likely to dominate his thinking.

Gatland may yet stick with the XV who started in the Triple Crown triumph over Ireland in Dublin.

But, whatever side he selects, the Wales coach has told his players, “We are in control of our own destiny, which is the way you always want it.

“We have put ourselves in a position where things are in our own hands. We don’t have to rely on anyone else.

“Winning the Triple Crown is a special moment. But the icing on the cake, and the important thing, is to win the championship and possibly the Grand Slam. You don’t throw those opportunities away.”

Gatland added, “France will pose a different test for us and they will be happy to play a bit more rugby.

“What team we put out I am not sure, but the French have a lot of pace and it will be a tough game at home.”

Of the Croke Park triumph, he said, “A lot of the Welsh players have come to Dublin in the past and they have been sent packing with their tails between their legs.

“So it was important they produced their performance.”