The Exeter Chiefs tight head was in the starting XV that led 13-9 at half-time against Scotland at Murrayfield, but then failed to add to their score in the second half as the Scots plundered two tries to notch 20 points to win their first game against Wales since 2007.
Wales now face Ireland at Principality Stadium in a game they need to win to avoid losing three successive RBS 6 Nations games in a row for the first time for 10 years. Francis will win his 21st cap on Friday night.
“We were obviously disappointed with the second half against Scotland. We felt we didn’t reflect ourselves as a squad and we aim to go and put that right against Ireland,” said Francis.
“Everyone knows we owe at least half a game of rugby, hopefully a whole one this time – we owe the second half from Scotland.
“You want to keep your place and after a loss like that everyone is on edge. It’s good, we have got a good squad, a good depth and we are fighting for places, especially in my position.”
Like the rest of his team mates, Francis was “on edge” after the defeat in the Scottish capital. With Samson Lee, Rhodri Jones and Scott Andrews breathing down his neck for the No 3 jersey he knows he has to be at his best to stay in the starting line-up.
“If you don’t have a good game there’s someone ready to take your place and everyone was on edge after the defeat in Scotland. It’s good we’ve got a good squad and a good depth, especially in my position,” said Francis.
Francis’ battle with Leinster loose head Jack McGrath will be critical at the set-piece and having come off the bench to help the Chiefs beat Leicester at Welford Raod last weekend he feels ready to have a go at the Irish front row.
“They have got a good driving game and scrum, which we have seen so far in the tournament. As a pack we are looking forward to it because we want to test ourselves against one of the best in the world – we want to go out and have a go at the,” he said.
