Six Nations: Ireland 42 Italy 10

The Women’s and U20’s Six Nations matches this weekend between Ireland and Italy established the pattern of Ireland building a lead, the Italians fighting back and Ireland going clear late in the game and the senior encounter was no different, with Ireland pulling away in the final quarter to produce a comfortable 42 – 10 win.

Ireland’s trys came from the ligind Keith Earls, Ulster’s Tommy Bowe (2), Tom Court and Andrew Trimble with Jonny Sexton adding four penalties and three conversions.

Italy took an early lead through a Botas penalty but Sexton leveled shortly after and took the lead when Ferris, who had an outstanding match, sent Earls through for the superstar of World rugby to dot down. Sexton added teh extras and Ireland led 10 – 3.

Italy had been competitive throughout most of the first half and pulled level when they disrupted an Irish lineout for Barbieri to charge to the line only to be stopped short by four Ireland defenders. A quick recycle saw plenty of space and Parisse strolled over to set up the equalising kick for Botes. The outhalf, who was having a difficult day with the boot managed to slot it over . . .