Wales v Samoa, Millennium Stadium, November 13
Jones sounds rallying call
Scrum.com
November 12, 2009
Wales captain Ryan Jones attempts to break free, Wales v New Zealand, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, November 7, 2009
Jones fends off the All Blacks' defence during last weekend's loss in Cardiff © Getty Images
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Wales captain Ryan Jones insists his side will be taking no chances against Samoa at the Millennium Stadium on Friday night.

The hosts are expecting a brutal assault from the South Sea Islanders who have won three of their last four meetings - including two famous victories on the Rugby World Cup stage. And as a clear indication of what he expects, Wales coach Warren Gatland has retained 10 of the players that went toe-to-toe against the All Blacks last weekend.

"It's a huge mark of respect to Samoa, who are a serious threat," said Ospreys No.8 Jones. "There are not sweeping changes, which allows us to build on our performance of last week.

"There is a core of the team still in place, while it is a fantastic opportunity for those guys coming in which they have got to take with two hands. They (Samoa) are going to be big, they are going to be physical, they are going to be direct. We've got to confront that challenge and be extremely combative.

"The set-piece is going to be key for us and the breakdown area, as it always is. We have got to play smart and make sure we've got a good balance to our game. It is important we focus on the stuff that's good in our game and impose that on them. The key for us is making sure we get our own house in order.

"We know what is good in our game, and we've got to build on that. We've been emphasising the need to execute things correctly time and time again. That is how you squeeze and pressure teams and then, when they are under pressure, you've got to make sure you score points."

Wales' last two Millennium Stadium Test matches - against Ireland and the All Blacks - saw the home side finish try-less on each occasion. And while he might have only just turned 20, there is considerable emphasis on fly-half prospect Dan Biggar - a colleague of Jones' at the Ospreys - to drive Wales' attacking game.

"It is a big game for Dan, a big opportunity for him," added the skipper. "He's been nothing short of superb with the Ospreys this year, and I think people don't credit him enough for the maturity he brings for someone of his age. He is not overawed by the occasion. He's a tradesman with a full box of tools.

"Dan has got it all, and over time I am sure we will see him evolve into a world-class 10. He is slightly opinionated at times, but that's a strength, it is a real positive to his game. He doesn't always like being told, but sometimes he is right too, and he is not afraid to tell you. He's one of those that brings the best out in others as well."

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