Italy pulled off a milestone achievement as they backed up their round three draw against France with a 31 – 29 win over Scotland at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
Taking an early lead through the boot of Paolo Garbisi, Italy would immediately find themselves facing a Scottish Storm for the next ten minutes.
During this period Scotland would score two tries through prop Zander Fagerson and winger Kyle Rowe to take a 14 – 3 lead.
Displaying the heart that kept them in the fight against France in round three, Italy stuck back with a magical piece of play as Ignacio Brex pounced on a clever kick to go in next to the posts.
Garbisi slotted the conversion and suddenly the hosts were back within a score.
Scotland would strike next through prop Pierre Schoeman but it would be Italy who ended the half on a positive note as Garbisi landed another penalty.
It could’ve been even better for the Italians at the break as fullback Ange Capuozzo was held up over the line.
Still for all of their dominance Scotland led by a mere six points at the break with a score of 22 – 16.
Striking early in the second half, debutant Louis Lynagh was on the end of a well placed grubber kick to get his side back into the contest.
Garbisi missed the conversion to leave his side trailing by a point but the hosts tails were now up and they would score next.
This time, it would be penalty kicks from Garbisi and scumhalf Marint Page-Relo that would prove to be the difference.
Scotland launched several probing attacks and were rewarded as secondrow Sam Skinner barged over and Finn Russell converted.
This would be the final act in the match as Italy sealed the win.
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