Scott Bemand not interested in 'plucky losers' tag ahead of Six Nations showdown in Belfast

Bemand’s side are preparing to resume their Six Nations campaign with a home clash against Wales in Belfast on Saturday – they’ve lost two of their three fixtures to date, suffering defeats to England and France alongside beating Italy.

Ireland’s senior team have made strides up the world rankings, currently sitting in fifth spot, while the nation’s U21s are unbeaten across two games in their own Six Nations campaign, including a triumph over England.

With constant improvements across the board, Bemand has noticed a change in mentality as Ireland look to establish themselves as one of the world’s top teams and insists they’re not content with simply competing.

"Yes, I do see that (mindset shift) and it is highlighted by the level of disappointment after the France game,” he said. “We said we didn't want to be plucky losers and we're not operating in that space anymore.

"I like that little bit of expectation we place on ourselves.

"People say we appear confident and we should be, we have good players.

"We hadn't scored a maul try against a top-four side and over in France last week we got a maul try. We're developing and showing we have the capability.

"Two or three years ago we were talking about belief and confidence but now we have the tools to keep going after it.

"I think there has been a mindset shift. The under-18s beat England recently, under-21s have just beaten England, the mindset now is we have the capability.

"We just need to take our points when they're there. We did that in spades in the first half against Italy but we know there are two halves and we think there were still points out there to be gained.

"We want a fast start and to keep going deeper into the game. If we can keep the performance levels, the result will take care of itself. Hopefully we give the people of Belfast something to shout about."