This really was a smash and grab raid as Ireland zoomed off into the Rome sunset in their green, white and orange minis leaving a heartbroken Italy in their wake! A last minute drop kick from Ronan O’Gara stole victory from the Italians giving Ireland a somewhat undeserved win by 11 – 13.
Ireland struggled to find any form against a gritty Italian side with the hosts taking a deserved 6 – 3 lead into the break thanks to two penalties from Mirco Bergamasco with Sexton replying with one for Ireland.
With Ireland under intense pressure in the scrum it was down to captain courageous Brian O’Driscoll to score from close range just after the re-start. Sexton added the conversion and with Ireland leading 6 – 10 the visitors were expected to kick on.
Ireland had a few chances but poor handling in the centre, with O’Drsicoll and D’Arcy both at fault, let them down on several occasions and with Healy in particular, struggling in the front row, the Italians worked their way back into the game.
With seven minutes to go, and Ireland under pressure, Dennis Leamy was carded for continual offences and the Italians sniffed their chance . . .
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