Young wants to get it right

"Obviously the Celtic League has not been good and we've under achieved," said the captain.

"But it's still at an early stage. Last year we were flying, then we fell on our faces in the later stages of Europe, so it's difficult to get it right.

"But Welsh teams have not been at their strongest because of all the injuries, though we can't offer that as an excuse.

"The Irish have had a long rest because of the foot-and-mouth problem, then they went to a training camp in Poland.

"They put the work in, so they've hit the ground running and they're on fire. "But the last thing we want is a below par performance on top of our club performances. "Romania are an international team and we've got to give them respect.

"They are always very good up front, they're very physical, so it's important we keep the ball for a number of phases.

"We're expecting a physical encounter up front and I think it'll be a very hard game." Young wants a higher level of competition for places as Wales build up to the 2003 World Cup.

"Graham tries to create competition in the squad so that no-one is guaranteed his place. He feels we've got more strength in depth than ever," he said.

"The players proved what they can do in Japan and with the Lions, so there is hope for the future.

"Players have go to show they're up to the job and give the selectors a headache when others return.

"Everything is geared up for 2003 and there must be competition for every position so the senior players can't take anything for granted.

"There weren't many debates with the team when Graham came, now we're getting to the stage where there is a lot of speculation about the team and the options, so we are in a healthier position."

But Young admits the injury situation is worrying with leading players out. "I've never know so many injuries to key players," he said. "The better players are playing more games, but we've got to pick up our performances."