Italy staved off a late Ireland comeback to get a bonus-point Six Nations win in Dublin on Sunday. Two tries from Italy’s Vittoria Vecchini and another from Valeria Fedrighi saw Italy leading Ireland 22-7 in the midway through the second half.
Ireland tried a comeback with a Neve Jones try. However, Italy’s Aura Muzzo took care of the bonus point with a fourth Italian try.
Ireland got a late glimmer of hope in the form of Katie Corrigan, which could’ve given them a first Six Nations win in almost two years, however, Italy stood strong.
Ireland secured their last Six Nations victory against Scotland in April 2022 and earmarked this match as their prime chance to clinch a vital win in the championship.
Although they suffered a defeat in France the previous week, Ireland showcased a significantly improved performance, fostering optimism that another strong showing could result in the coveted victory.
Optimism soared at the RDS Arena as the hosts were granted a penalty try within the first seven minutes, further boosting expectations for success.
Following a cynical knock-on by full-back Vittoria Minuzzi on Eve Higgins’ pass to Beibhinn Parsons, resulting in a sin-bin sanction, referee Hollie Davidson confirmed the seven-point penalty after consulting with the TMO.
Although Ireland dominated territory and possession in the initial quarter, their performance was marred by handling errors. They committed five errors compared to Italy’s one, with numerous knock-ons undoing their positive work with the ball.
Ireland’s early dominance didn’t translate into points, allowing Vecchini to score the first of her two tries at 25 minutes. Seven minutes later, lock Fedrighi powered over for Italy’s second try. Rigoni’s successful conversion and a penalty gave Italy a 15-7 lead at halftime.
Before the break, Delany was stretchered off with a neck injury. Despite Italy’s halftime lead, Corrigan’s opportunity was thwarted just short of a try. Vecchini’s second try extended Italy’s lead to 22-7. In the final quarter, Jones scored for Ireland, narrowing the deficit to 22-14.
Italy secured a bonus point through Muzzo’s try. Although Corrigan scored late for Ireland, Italy held on for a deserved victory, denying Ireland’s late push.
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