Wales have not won in Dublin in the Six Nations since 2012, and have lost their past 14 Six Nations matches in a streak that now stretches over three years.
The performance in the 26-23 defeat by Scotland, however, has given hope that Steve Tandy’s side can spring an upset over their Irish counterparts.
Ireland, buoyed by the record 42-21 away win over England, however, will be a tough nut to crack after a resurgent performance keeps alive their slim title chance and Triple Crown hopes. Upbeat, Andy Farrell’s side will go in as heavy favourites to win at the Aviva Stadium.
Reflecting on a more encouraging display against the Scots, Lake feels Wales can prove the doubters wrong and break their long-standing duck.
“We believe we can compete against Ireland because we think we’re good enough, I don’t think we would be here if we didn’t think that,” said the Ospreys star.
“We believe that if we play our game and we get our things right, we can beat Ireland.
“They’re one of the top teams in the world and are always a great team. We’re excited to go and play them.
“I have said from game one, there has been belief in the squad in this whole campaign.
“We showed our best against Scotland, and everything kind of clicked for us.
“We put a bit more effort into defence in the week, and you probably saw that, the mentality to go and defend. When we get the ball, we look good in attack and have done over the last couple of months.
“That Scotland game is only going to give us more confidence, so we can go another level this weekend.
“Being Welsh, we’ve always loved that [the underdog tag], nobody giving us an opportunity. Nobody gave us an opportunity last round, and we showed what we could do.
“I know ultimately we didn’t come away with a result, but that game has given us belief. That’s only going to carry the momentum of this squad through this weekend.”
[Lead image; Welsh Rugby Union]
