Following an entertaining 38-14 Six Nations victory for Wales over Italy, here are our five takeaways from Sunday’s game in Cardiff.
Welsh backline take their chance: From Steff Evans’ ability to keep the ball alive by whatever means, George North impressing and looking hungry in a two-try showing and Hadleigh Parkes showing his class and power in midfield, the much-changed Welsh backline definitely took their chance on Sunday. Only Gareth Davies and Liam Williams will probably feel disappointed with their day after respective yellow cards.
Matteo Minozzi shines again for Italy: We’ve mentioned the full-back on numerous occasions this Six Nations and once again he stood out in Italian colours. Minozzi’s finish for his try was of top quality and Conor O’Shea will hope to see him continue to grow as a force. The signs are good.
Plenty of positives for Italy: Despite only scoring 14 points and going down to yet another loss, Italy can hold their heads high after a plethora of positive spells at the Principality Stadium. Sustained pressure and good structure to their game had Wales in trouble at times and it’s just a shame they conceded those early tries. Had they not leaked those 14 points then the game could have played out differently. Same old story though unfortunately.
Hadleigh Parkes decision incorrect: Parkes being denied his second try of the game was another TMO decision that rankles. Yes, the question posed by referee Jérôme Garcès did not help the eventual outcome but surely the replays showed the centre hit the ground just short and in the ensuing movement move the ball on to the line? Marius Jonker said there was no clear grounding. We’ll have to agree to disagree on this.
Welsh back-row stocks bulging: A new-look trio in shirts 6, 7 and 8 for Wales but they showed their class, as expected. Justin Tipuric has, for a long time, been thought of as a regular international starter while Taulupe Faletau is just an unbelievably talented athlete and rugby player. But a new face in James Davies won his first cap on Sunday and gave a good account of himself. He will hope plenty more now follow.
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