SOME of the most feared and revered forwards to play rugby for Wales are giving their blessings to the current side and are tipping them for victory this weekend.

The famous Pontypool front row, aka Graham Price, Bobby Windsor and Tony Faulkner terrorised the opposition for club and country during the golden era of Welsh rugby in the 1970s.

All three believe Mike Ruddock's side can deliver Wales' first Grand Slam after 27 years of heartache.

Prop Graham Price, who was still playing for Wales the last time they beat Ireland in Cardiff in 1983, said: "I think we have a good opportunity on Saturday as long as we treat it as a one-off game rather than the Grand Slam game.

"What started out as the only way we could play, by spreading the ball out to the back three because we looked a bit suspect up front, seems to have become our style.

"Even though our forwards have improved we are still playing in that way and it is winning us a lot of friends."

He added: "Ireland will be a different proposition to the Scots because they play consistently well. They have some players who can turn the game on its head, like Brian O'Driscoll, but I'm backing Wales to do it."

Hooker Bobby Windsor said: "I have never seen anything like that first half against Scotland. I don't want to take anything away from our boys but that was the worst display I have ever seen from a Scotland team.

"For Ireland we will have to play for 80 minutes because they have the Triple Crown and championship to go for, so it won't be an easy game. "It will be a great occasion and I'm sure our boys will get it - let's start a new era for Welsh rugby.

"If they win on Saturday they can all start wearing silver boots and gold chains!"

Prop Tony Faulkner added: "This team are very good and there is a bit of a buzz around for the first time in a long time. They are playing well. " I hope they can do it. We've got home advantage and Ireland are there for the taking. The Irish will be dangerous but we have everything going for us.

"Wales are capable of winning - there is no doubt. It will be fantastic for the nation if we can win."