Following his side’s comfortable 49 v 12 victory over Namibia, Mapusua described the mood in the Islanders’ squad as high but he was key to point out that they know Wales throw everything at them on the weekend.
“We were pleased with our victory, we got exactly what we came for with the win and bonus point but we know we are in for a tough battle against Wales this weekend,” said the former London Irish centre.
“They were very physical against South Africa and pushed them all the way and they were unlucky not to come away with the win, so we are under no illusion of the challenge ahead of us. We know we are going to face a fired up Dragon, but we just have to try and implement our game plan.
“It was good to get the first game out of the way, we were chomping at the bit after seeing everyone else playing so its pleasing to get going.
“Every game is like a knock-out, so we have got through the first stage and now our focus is on Wales.
“We have got a massive mountain to climb and we know what is at stake but we will be going in the game with our dream on the line.”
The 31-year-old left London Irish this summer and will head to Kubota Spears in Japan after World Cup. He is in line to face Jamie Roberts on Sunday and believes the Cardiff Blues star is back to some of his best form in New Zealand.
“Jamie is a class player,” he added.
“He showed on the Lions tour a few years ago how good he was and he is starting to find that form again so I’m looking forward to the personal battle.
“Playing at the World Cup is all about testing yourself against the very best in the world and Jamie is definitely up there in that category.”
