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• Dwayne Peel

Scrum-half Dwayne Peel says Wales are determined to bounce back to form when Italy visit Cardiff on Saturday in the Six Nations.

Wales travelled to Dublin in their last match under a cloud after coach Mike Ruddock's departure in controversial circumstances, with player power being cited by many as the reason for his exit.

The squad hoped to prove a point against Ireland but were woefully below par and suffered a 31-5 humbling in a display that was far removed from those they produced when winning all their Six Nations games last year.

Wales now desperately need a win over Italy on Saturday, but Peel is also keen for the Welsh fans to see a real improvement in the performance.

"When it comes to the Six Nations championship the win is important, but we are not thinking like that, we are looking to go out to perform," said Peel.

"We were disappointed with how it went in Ireland and we have worked in training last week and this week on areas we need to work on.

"The guys are looking forward to going out there and showing what we can do.

"As a squad we are excited about this week. Obviously we let ourselves down in Ireland and we have got a chance to put things right on Saturday."

Peel, who has 44 caps to his name, knows that it will not be easy against the Italians, who are no longer a soft touch in the Six Nations.

"Italy are capable of beating anyone and anywhere," added Peel.

"They have led every game they have played in the championship this season and against France there was only four points in the game with 72 minutes on the clock.

"They are a good side who thrive on pressure and forcing mistakes, and if we give loose ball and cough up possession too easily they will punish us.

"We will need good ball on Saturday, especially up against a good, strong Italian pack and a big back row. Hopefully we can move them around a bit.

"As far as we are concerned our game is just off at the moment. A lot of things are just out and not quite 100 percent."

Wales have injuries concerns over both Stephen Jones and Mark Jones, with the former undergoing intensive treatment to get over the dead leg he picked up against Ireland.

"A player like Steve is a world-class player and any side would love to have Steve," insisted Peel.

"If he is up for selection then that will be a big boost to the team because he is a world-class player."