As Leonardo Marin raced up the touchline, thoughts of just a second Six Nations win for Italy in 26 meetings against Ireland flashed before our eyes
How Ireland came dangerously close to a rare defeat to ItalyFurthermore, whereas Jack Crowley had missed three of his four conversions, Tommaso Allan had landed three kicks from three, including two superb conversions. As the home fans roared them on, and as Marin raced up the touchline, all of this contributed to thoughts of just a second Six Nations win for Italy in 26 meetings against Ireland flashing before our eyes.
Ultimately, not even an Italian barber could have given Ireland a closer shave. This was reaffirmed by what Ireland did with an ensuing penalty against Giacomo Nicotera. Winning by five points, they were still shy of England’s points differential but the thought of going down the pitch and enhancing their remote title hopes never entered their heads.
Ireland's James Ryan in action during the Six Nations match at the Stadio Olimpico, Rome. Photograph: Domenico Cippitelli/PA Wire The pick of Ireland’s tries was their first when three blunt power plays led to a scrum and Keenan timing his run on to Crowley’s shoulder to score off the outhalf’s delayed and disguised pass.
There was no denying the effort, but Ireland’s flat display lacked the energy and spriteliness of the Azzurri players, so betraying clear signs of a hangover in the fallout of losing to France and with it the chance of a lifetime. They are human.
Ireland-Rugby Italy-Rugby James-Lowe Hugo-Keenan Jack-Crowley Sam-Prendergast Peter-Omahony Conor-Murray Dan-Sheehan
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