Italy are celebrating today after their first win in this year’s women’s rugby 6 Nations with a tense 12-8 victory over Wales. Italy took a two try lead into the break and put up a spirited display holding on for a rare win in this competition.
Having beaten Wales in Wales last year, Italy had some confidence coming into this one despite their massive defeat in England last week.
Wales took the lead when Amiee Young kicked a penalty following a strong drive from the Welsh pack but Italy responded straight away whenMaria Diletta Veronese crossed for the first try after she exploieded space out wide.
Veronica Schiavon couldn't add the extras with the conversion but Italy took an early 5 - 3 lead.
Young had an opportunity to put Wales back into the lead after Italy had strayed off-side but her penalty attempt drifted to the left had side of the sticks.
Wales continued to threaten for the rest of the first period but just could not find away past the final tackler and it was Italy who scored their second try just before the break, Cioffi Maria Grazia slicing through to score and Schiavon added the conversion for a 12 v 3 scoreline at the break.
Rejuvenated at half-time Wales dominated territory and possession in the opening quarter of the second period but Young could not narrow the gap, her third penalty drifting wide.
Two minutes later Wales got the reward for all their attacking efforts, Neath wing Kerin Lake touching down in the corner.
It was then Wales turn to go on the defensive and they held out the Italian onslaught for ten minutes but could not get the final score they deserved and craved.
