Leinster prop Reggie Corrigan is demanding that Ireland put the disappointment of Saturday's Six Nations defeat to France behind them, as they aim for victory against Wales next week that could give them the Six Nations title.
Their destiny is not fully in their own hands as France will enter the equation should they put Italy to the sword next Saturday, but by the time Ireland meet Wales at the Millenium Stadium they will know what is required.
Ireland were despondent following defeat to France, which wrecked their dreams of a Grand Slam, but Corrigan claims that the sense of disappointment at the result is a sign of how far Ireland have progressed.
"We were devastated after losing to France and that is a sign of far how we have come in recent years. In the past Ireland would have been delighted to be at the stage where they could win a Triple Crown," he said.
"The fact that we are so disappointed that the Grand Slam is now over for us proves our ambition and shows the self-belief we have. The defeat is a blow but we have to get over it as quickly as possible. We have to try and pick ourselves up and move on."
"We can defend our Triple Crown against Wales and, of course, the championship is there to be won," Corrigan added.
However, Ireland have injury worries ahead of the crunch match with Wales and coach Eddie O'Sullivan revealed that he does not expect influential centre Gordan D'Arcy to feature in Cardiff.
The 25-year-old has suffered from a hamstring injury ever since being withdrawn after 25 minutes of Ireland's opening Six Nations win over Italy last month and is very doubtful for the clash with Wales.
O'Sullivan said: "I don't think Gordon is going to make the Wales match the way things are going. There has been uncertainty over his injury for the last few weeks and it's not looking good."
