Wales will bid to offer Ireland an "uncomfortable" welcome in their Six Nations rugby game at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

The Irish enjoy an enviable record in Cardiff, having lost only once in the Welsh capital since 1983, and Wales kicking coach Neil Jenkins acknowledged that the match would be a "massive challenge" for the home side.

"Ireland are a very tough and experienced side who enjoy a fantastic record here, be it at the old Arms Park or the Millennium Stadium," Jenkins said.

"Whatever Ireland throw at us, we're going to have to be ready for it. It's a good test for us."

Forwards coach Robin McBryde predicted a fast, free-flowing game under the watchful eye of South African referee Jonathan Kaplan, whom he praised as an official who "rewarded positivity".

"All the ingredients are there for a great match," the former Wales hooker said, adding that success would be measured in a "matter of inches".

"Discipline is key, especially with the quality of kickers on display," he said in reference to Wales' James Hook and long-distance specialist Leigh Halfpenny, and Ireland's Ronan O'Gara, just two short of 1,000 Test points.

"We're expecting a fast game, with the tempo quite high. Hopefully, we'll bring our best game to the table and make it uncomfortable."

McBryde admitted that the two teams had struggled since their recent highs of winning the Grand Slam -- Wales in 2008 and Ireland in 2009 -- pinpointing injuries, the Lions tour and the sheer number of games played as reasons.

Both sides have flattered to deceive in this year's Six Nations, with some disappointingly flat displays in a tournament now topped by the unbeaten English.

Ireland struggled past Italy (13-11) and Scotland (21-18), and went down 25-22 to France, while Wales convincingly beat Scotland (24-6), failed to impress in a victory against Italy (24-16) and lost to England (26-19).

"I'm not sure they've slipped," said McBryde of the teams. "But it's fair to say that both sides are struggling to find their best form.

"There'll be inches in the outcome of the game tomorrow. It'll be very tight, but we'll try to come with our best game and deliver under pressure from a strong Ireland team."

McBryde confirmed that Wasps forward Andy Powell was cut from the replacements' bench after the more versatile Jonathan Thomas came through a fitness test.

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