Jubilant scenes as Italy defeat Wales in Cardiff to close out promising Six Nations campaign

Italy completed a mightily impressive Guinness Six Nations campaign as they went undefeated through the final rounds with a draw against France preceding wins over Scotland and now Wales.

Downing Warren Gatland’s side 24 – 21, Italy were full value for their win as they led 21 – 7 with minutes to play before conceding two late consolation tries.

Taking the early initiative, Italy kept Wales scoreless for the bulk of fifty minutes through tries from Monte Ioane and Lorenzo Pani, with Paolo Garbisi adding two penalties and a conversion.

Wales would eventually cross as Elliot Dee wiggled his way over the line to give his team a foothold in the fixture.

Unlike previous iterations of Italian Rugby teams, this team knuckled down as Paolo Garbisi slotted two penalties to put an end to the contest, with the Azzurri now holding a 24 – 7 lead.

Finishing with two tries in quick succession through Will Rowlands and Mason Grady, Wales secured a losing bonus point, which was scant consolation as they ended the tournament winless.

Une première campagne avec l’Italie plus qu’aboutie pour Gonzalo Quesada 👏 #WALITA | #SixNationsRugby pic.twitter.com/gI2sMy1Rvh

— Six Nations (FR) (@SixNations_FR) March 16, 2024