The Italians are unlikely to get an opportunity to build on their impressive showing against England last week when they travel to Dublin to tackle Ireland in round two of the Six Nations on Sunday.
Six Nations
Ireland v Italy
Sunday 11 February – 17:00
Aviva Stadium
To Win
Ireland N/A | Draw 40/1 | Italy 15/1
Handicap
Ireland (-34.5) 9/10 | Italy (+34.5) 9/10
As good as the Italians were at stages during their 24-27 loss to the Roses in Rome, their progress may be more difficult to gauge when they face Ireland here. England themselves are a team with far more vulnerabilities than the Irish and it’s tough to name a department in which the Azzurri will gain an advantage against Andy Farrell’s boys come Sunday.
If Italy can slow down Ireland’s ruck speed, they may be able to partially contain the fierce pace at which the hosts play and Seb Negri would have led the charge in this regard had he not picked up a rib injury against England. The rest of Italy’s back row will need to pick up the slack in his absence while Paolo Garbisi’s decision-making with whatever possession his side get will also be crucial, as will his execution off the boot.
Ireland are fresh off condemning France to a 38-17 Marseille defeat in the first round, a result which puts them firmly in control of the Championship this season. Their round four trip to Twickenham will pose a real challenge, but home ties against Wales and Scotland gives them a major boost in their quest for a 16th title – and possibly even a fifth Grand Slam.
Verdict: Ireland (-34.5) 9/10
It could be a long day at the office for Gonzalo Quesada’s troops.
