No fear for Roberts

Centre confident Wales can end New Zealand's dominance

Last updated: 19th November 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

No fear for Roberts

Roberts: Confident

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Centre Jamie Roberts insists Wales will go into their clash with New Zealand with nothing to fear - despite having failed to beat the All Blacks in their last 19 encounters.

The New Zealanders arrive in Cardiff looking to record a 20th straight victory over the Welsh - and having already brushed aside Scotland and Ireland.

However despite their poor record against the All Blacks - it is 55 years since Wales last beat them - Roberts is refusing to believe the game is lost before it has even kicked off.

He said: "Probably a lot of players, before they face the All Blacks, are a bit like some boxers who fought Muhammad Ali - in that they lost the fight before they even fought.

"I am sure that has happened to a lot of teams down the years.

"But I see it as a game of rugby at the end of the day - it's 15 versus 15 on a patch of grass.

Respect

"You take all the history out of the game, and it is about who performs on the day.

"We are (Six Nations) Grand Slam champions, and New Zealand will show that respect by probably fielding their strongest team on the weekend."

Cardiff Blues ace Roberts is set to collect his sixth cap on Saturday and he is determined to ensure he finishes on the winning side.

"Playing against the All Blacks is a chance I've always dreamt about, and one I hope I am not going to let slip," Roberts added.

"Every sportsman wants to play against the best - that is the only way of measuring yourself.

"There are 22 guys who are more than willing to empty the tank for their country, and I hope that will be enough."

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