Rugby World Cup: Clerc all set for battle of the big little men

Fance's Vincent Clerc says it is difficult to defend against players like Wales' Shane WIlliams (above) who is small but strong. Photo / Getty Images

France wing Vincent Clerc insists he has no intention of letting his opposite number, Shane Williams, chalk up another victory in the battle of the big little men in tomorrow's semifinal at Eden Park.

The pair have come face to face several times, most tellingly in the finale to the 2008 Six Nations championship, when Williams scored one of the tries in a 29-12 victory that delivered a Grand Slam to Wales for the second time in four seasons.

Clerc, 30, is joint top try-scorer in this World Cup, alongside Chris Ashton, on six tries including one against England. The Toulouse wing is a fan of Williams, himself a record-breaker with 56 tries in 84 tests, but he is fully aware that France will have to snare the Osprey or they will be in trouble.

"Shane is an exceptional player, very explosive, dynamic and athletic," said Clerc. "He is everywhere round the pitch. His finishing from all areas of the pitch is outstanding.

"It's difficult to defend against a player who is small but still very strong. He is always looking for space, everywhere on the pitch. He is an all-round player, more than just a finisher, and can make the difference.

"Wales as a whole are a real class act. They like to pass the ball, and so do we," said Clerc.

Whereas France have stuttered in reaching this point, Wales have looked fluid and authoritative after their opening-round reverse against South Africa.

"The Welsh team has progressed a lot and, along with the All Blacks, they have played the best rugby in this tournament," said Clerc. "They always seem to find a way out of every situation. They get the ball back efficiently, even when they are pushed back."

Much as France are wary of the threat posed by Williams, they have identified another player as the principal danger.

"Jamie Roberts is their key player," said France halfback Dimitri Yachvili. "He always carries the ball and crosses the line. We've got to make sure that we throw him down and stop the rush."

France's defence coach, Dave Ellis, has been taken by what Wales have shown in this tournament but adds an important rider.

"They are on a roll but their defence has not been tested yet," he said. "We have to make sure it is tested this time." Telegraph Group Ltd