Eddie O'Sullivan says failure to defeat an experimental Wales side at the Principality Stadium tomorrow would pile the pressure on Ireland ahead of the World Cup.
After a disappointing Six Nations campaign and an indifferent display against Italy in the first of the World Cup warm-up series, it was a systems failure against England at Twickenham last weekend.
After that record-breaking defeat, Joe Schmidt’s side will look to get the better of Wales in their back-to-back games and speaking on Morning Ireland, the former Ireland head coach says the game has now taken on a new level of importance.
"So many things went awry against England," he said. "The problem at the moment is it’s not about winning, it’s about performance. There are a lot of parts to be fixed.
"The game is of a different level of importance than anyone expected before they started out the warm-up series."
O'Sullivan identified the lineout as one of the many areas of concern, but says that Gatland’s team selection offers Ireland an opportunity to lay down a marker.
It may be the New Zealander’s last game in charge of Wales in Cardiff, but he has made 14 changes to the team with Cardiff Blues wing Owen Lane and Saracens prop Rhys Carre making their debuts, while Josh Navidi will captain his country for the first time.
There are also opportunities for the likes of full-back Hallam Amos, centre Scott Williams, out-half Jarrod Evans and hooker Ryan Elias before the World Cup squad is announced on Sunday.
"I wouldn’t say victory is essential, though this is such a weak Welsh team that if Ireland were to lose to them, it would pile more pressure on.
The problem for Ireland at the moment is between the ears
"A loss tomorrow would make things more difficult. If Ireland can’t put them away tomorrow, it just begs more questions."
Will Ireland emerge victorious?
"I think we will, but it will be a test of our confidence more than ability. The problem for Ireland at the moment is between the ears.
"They haven’t become a bad rugby team overnight, but the confidence is factor is huge."
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