CAPTAIN Sam Warburton has hailed the Wales squad and management for showing the belief to make a Six Nations title tilt after their opening night disappointment, writes Chris Kirwan.

The tournament started with an English win at the Millennium Stadium, ending Welsh Grand Slam and Triple Crown hopes before four teams had taken to the field,

But Wales grew as the weeks passed, like in 2013 when they won the title after losing to Ireland in round one.

Hard-fought wins in Edinburgh, Paris and against the Irish were followed by last weekend's romp in Rome that meant they dared to dream until the men in green crushed Scotland.

Warburton, who was immense at openside flanker at the Stadio Olimpico, believes their displays bode well in World Cup year.

He said: "Every game I think we have got better, that is the best thing to see. The belief the guys had after losing that first match was there.

"You are always reminded in the media how difficult it is winning a championship after losing your first game. But the belief that we kept over the last six or seven weeks was amazing so all credit to everyone, the boys, coaching staff, for being so positive and putting us back into contention for the championship."

Warburton, who admitted he will be haunted by the last-gasp tries conceded to Scotland and Italy, scored a fantastic try and was delighted by his side's stunning second half display.

"It was a good confidence boost. We always thought we were capable of having an attacking performance like that," he said.

"To be fair to Warren, Rob and the coaches they tell us to play but maybe it was just a confidence issue. We are a lot more confident side than we were 24 months ago."

Warburton has enjoyed a terrific campaign on the openside, playing in all five games despite putting his body on the line.

He said: "From a personal point of view, it is the first Six Nations where I have played in all five games injury-free, which is pretty good for me," he said. "I think that national dual contract is working, it has kept me on the pitch."