Saturdays clash at the Stadio Flaminio is vital after defeats to Ireland, Scotland and France left Wales facing the unedifying prospect of landing the wooden spoon in a World Cup season.

Wales head coach Gareth Jenkins is acutely aware of Italys formidable set-piece and the blitz defence which carried them to victory over Scotland two weekends ago.

But he also believes Italy are a limited side - and Jones is determined Wales exploit that by hitting them early and from all angles.

Jones said: Italys tails will certainly be up after their win over Scotland. They are big men, strong men who have developed hugely over the last couple of seasons.

They have a very good set-piece and they like a structured game but we hope to have something extra in the tank, something special.

Italy are hugely physical - but if we can break the game up a bit and play an open style then hopefully they wont be able to deal with that.

Variety is the key. If Italy are still in the game after 30 minutes they become an even more difficult team to beat.

But if we can mix it up and keep throwing things at them that they are not used to then we will do well.

On recent evidence, though, it will be easier said than done.

Jenkins ambition to see his team attack opponents the Welsh way - with high-tempo rugby - has only materialised in fits and starts during the championship.

Against Ireland they worked openings but failed to capitalise on them but then, in defeat to Scotland, Wales created nothing at all.

They improved markedly in Paris and raced into a 14-3 lead with their first tries of the tournament only for France to boss the last hour and win the game.

On Saturday Wales must win at least an even share of possession in order to put that game-plan into practice, something they failed to do against both Scotland and France.

The lack of quality possession and field position are key factors behind Wales sub-standard performances of late.

The official RBS 6 Nations data, supplied by SAS Software, shows Wales are bottom of the pile when it comes to winning rucks and mauls and losing their own lineout.

Captain Stephen Jones at fly-half and Ryan Jones himself have not been in top form - but equally they have not been in a position with which to assert their usual authority.

Ryan Jones found the Paris experience agonising as France held possession for long periods - at one stage they put together 17 consecutive phases - and the game spiralled out of Wales control.