The Welsh meet Italy in Rome on Saturday buoyed up by their 11-9 victory over the world champions at the Millennium Stadium.

And Williams, who won his 50th cap in the win over England, claims any fears of the success going to Wales players' heads were dispelled by Italy's performance in their 28-17 opening round defeat by Ireland.

''I wouldn't say we fear the Italian forwards, but we do respect them, said Williams.

They have one of the best packs in the Six Nations. They are very physical in the style of the French and naturally strong.

''Up front Italy are going to be as big a challenge as England were. A lot of people said Ireland didn't play well on Sunday, but that was because Italy stopped them playing.

Their pack was outstanding, especially at set-pieces and they contested everything in the contact area. Ireland just couldn't get any kind of pattern going.

''The Italian back-row and rest of the pack made it very difficult for Ireland to get any quick ball.

''It was a big wake-up call for us - if we thought it was all over after one game, we only had to watch that game on Sunday to show it wasn't.

''If Ireland had gone out and blown Italy away, it would probably have been the worst thing that could have happened from our point of view.

''But that performance has made us sit up and take note. We know Italy are a good side.

''We went and lost there two years ago and won't be underestimating them. Most of the boys played in Rome in that game and we know how difficult it can be.

Williams added: ''Italy didn't just scramble and dig in against Ireland - they actually dominated the game and on top of that Italy put a bit of width into their game, which they haven't done over the last few years. We have to take note of that too.''