Wales slipped to a dismal end to a testing Six Nations campaign as a spirited and resurgent Italy impressed in Cardiff to win 24-21.
Italy’s teammates celebrate after winning at the end of the Six Nations international rugby union match between Wales and Italy at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, south Wales, on March 16, 2024. – Italy won 24 – 21 against Wales. Picture: Geoff Caddick / AFP.
But for Italy, victory meant they had recorded their best return in a Six Nations of two wins and a draw, with this result following last weekend’s 31-29 defeat of Scotland in Rome and a 13-13 thriller with France.It also ensured the Azzurri avoided a ninth-straight ‘wooden spoon’ in the tournament. Wales then managed two further tries through replacements Will Rowlands and Mason Grady but those scores came too late to deny Italy a deserved victory.
Further Italy dominance up front allowed Garbisi to kick a penalty for an attacking line-out inside Wales’s 22.Italy, however, lost possession and Wales counter-attacked only for Azzurri captain Michele Lamaro to win a penalty at the breakdown.Wales’s poor first half was summed up when a lack of communication between Sam Costelow and Cameron Winnett saw both backs go for the same high ball and knock-on to gift Italy a scrum in the hosts’ 22.
This time around, Ioane found Pani and the full-back sidestepped Josh Adams in style before sprinting in for a try. Garbisi converted and Italy were 18-0 ahead in the 46th minute as boos rang round the Principality Stadium from the frustrated home fans.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Warren Gatland wants Wales to embrace pressure in Six Nations clash with ItalyWarren Gatland expresses his desire for Wales to embrace the pressure as they face Italy in their final Six Nations match. A defeat would result in Wales finishing at the bottom of the table for the first time since 2003. Gatland, however, states that he loves the pressure.
Read more »
Who is the Joburg-born star featuring for Italy in the Six Nations?The Italian rugby team has discovered a raw gem in 21-year-old loose forward Ross Vintcent, who was born in Johannesburg.
Read more »
Six Nations: Italy ends 11-year drought!After 11 agonizing years, Italy finally celebrates a Six Nations home victory. Their thrilling upset of Scotland sends shockwaves.
Read more »
Italy stun Scotland to claim first Six Nations home win in 11 yearsItaly claimed their first Six Nations home win in 11 years after beating Scotland 31-29. Ireland can can now retain their title with a win over England.
Read more »
Wales veteran North to retire from international rugby after Italy TestWales veteran North to retire from international rugby after Italy Test
Read more »
Winless Wales switch up for Italy duelGeorge North and Nick Tompkins start in midfield while skipper Dafydd Jenkins returns to lock for Wales' final Six Nations fixture against Italy in Cardiff on Saturday.
Read more »