A third Grand Slam in the eight years now appears a very real possibility despite what was largely a frustrating afternoon for the Millennium Stadium crowd.

Boss Gatland was at the helm when Wales last helped themselves to a Grand Slam in 2008 and the Kiwi has backed his side to cope with the inevitable pressure this week.

“It won't be difficult for us to get through this week at all,” said Gatland. “The guys have got their heads on. These young players are just taking these things in their stride.

“The players are well aware about the huge amount of hype but I would like to think they are in a good place and that the Welsh public are pretty happy with them.

“We have obviously got a chance of a Grand Slam. We are at home and I thought the crowd were fantastic for the Italy game.

“We will just try and keep our heads down. If they did achieve a Grand Slam to have three in eight years it would be very special.”