Italy gave Wales somewhat of a Six Nations scare in Rome yesterday, but the visitors were able to subdue them enough and show their experience to take a 24-16 win at the Stadio Flaminio.
Wales scored in the first half through Morgan Stoddart, as well as scoring a great try that was finished off by flanker Sam Warburton after a nice Shane Williams run. Stephen Jones was back at flyhalf, kicking 11 points while James Hook was in the center, but managed to slot a late drop-goal.
Gonzalo Canale and captain Sergio Parisse both scored for Italy, but four missed attempts at goal proved costly as they struggled to stay in touch.
Wales coach Warren Gatland insists that his side still have a chance of winning the championship. “It still puts us in contention for the championship, we’ve got a big game against Ireland at home and then France,” said Gatland.
“It’s a tough competition and it’s about building momentum and confidence. We’ve had two tough wins away in the last two games and next we’re at the Millennium Stadium at home and we want to get a result from our next performance.
“Today’s was a lot tougher (than Scotland). Italy are a very big, physical side. Perhaps because of the criticism of Italy in their first two games, playing set-pieces, scrums, line-outs, they played a lot more ball in hand,” he added.
You can watch extended highlights of the game on the Eplayer on the sidebar. Navigate to ‘Rugby Union’ and there’s an 8 minute long version there, as well as some other highlights.
Time:
04:16
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