Italy Slowly Growing As They Eye Another Big Foe

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: March 23, 2010

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While the Azzurri may have ended the Six Nations in fifth place, the third time in a row they have been positioned in the cellar, the Italians can reflect on a solid campaign.

 

Four losses may not constitute a success in typical terms, but there is no doubting that gradually Italian rugby is getting stronger, breaking a two-year losing streak in the Six Nations by defeating Scotland 16-12 this year, and competing against the bigger teams.

 

Indeed, their win against the Thistles was put into perspective when looking at the way that Scotland crashed Ireland’s Croke Park party, a loss that ensured there was precious little Craic for their supporters to celebrate in Dublin post match.

 

Analysis of their matches showcases their development.

 

In the second half against Ireland, they lost 3-6; a remarkable result considering they had been put to the sword by the then reigning champions in the first half.

 

When England arrived in Rome, few would have predicted that the Italians would have been in a position for most of the match to win, only to lose 12-17, with only a 74th-minute drop goal by Jonny Wilkinson sealing the game for the visitors.

 

And against France, they came back in the 12 minutes to put on 14 unanswered points.  Two tries against the Six Nations champions...the same number Wales scored and more than any other side in the tournament.

 

Their future is bright.

 

Next season the Magners League will welcome both Benetton Rugby and new super club Aironi Rugby, meaning that Italian rugby now has a more natural progression: from Super 10, to Magners, to Heineken Cup rugby, to the Six Nations.

 

But most of all this Italian team is gaining some ticker.  Coach Nick Mallet seems to be movin...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Rugby Union

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