Wing Shane Williams scored the winning try for Wales

The Ospreys wing equalled Wales' all-time try-scoring record of 40 during a fierce battle at Croke Park.

"I think the effort today certainly justified the win," the 31-year-old told BBC Sport.

"The last five minutes were the longest of my life but the forwards kept at it and we deserved it in the end."

Interview: Wales wing Shane Williams

He added: "It was a very good performance by the Irish but we stuck at it, gritted our teeth and was probably the hardest game so far.

"It's not the easiest place in the world to come to Croke Park and win, but the effort today was tremendous."

Williams praised coach Gatland and his staff for helping to turn around Wales' fortunes.

606: DEBATE What a cracking game of rugby, credit must be given to both teams Schumi-01

"It's a lot to do with Warren and a lot to do with the attitude of the players and everyone else," he said.

"Warren has come in with his own ideas with Shaun (Edwards) and Rob (Howley).

"We train very hard underneath them and it certainly shows on the field."

And of his record-equalling try, Williams said: "People talk about being the highest try-scorer for Wales and when you think of the likes who have been there before you, it's a massive honour."

Wales outside-half Stephen Jones hailed Williams as "fantastic" after he equalled Gareth Thomas's Test tries record.

"He is a wonderful player, he's got everything, he's so talented and I'm glad he's Welsh!" Jones said.

We've put ourselves in a great situation and it's a big challenge against France Stephen Jones

"It was a difficult game, but I thought we played some fantastic rugby. Our forwards were superb, they gave us a great platform to play off.

"We kept the ball well, we made Ireland work very hard and I think the better team won.

"Things didn't quite go for us in the first half but we kept going, kept our belief, kept the ball very well, recycled very well and we managed to get our rewards in the end."

The victory has put Wales on course for the Grand Slam in Cardiff against France next weekend.

"We've put ourselves in a great situation and it's a big challenge against France," said Jones.

"I'm sure Welsh people will be very excited and looking forward to the game next weekend."