Wales moved second in the NatWest 6 Nations table behind champions Ireland after claiming an expected bonus-point victory over Italy.
It was not always plain-sailing for Wales before they made it 12 successive wins against the Azzurri, but their superior class and finishing ability ultimately told during a 38-14 triumph.
Winger George North – back in action following a recent difficult time at his club Northampton – set the tone with a try double, while centre Hadleigh Parkes, lock Cory Hill and flanker Justin Tipuric also crossed.
It’s a bonus point win for Wales and they move to second in the #NatWest6Nations table pic.twitter.com/Jd6Cq7k2QJ
— NatWest 6 Nations (@SixNationsRugby) March 11, 2018
Tweet of the match
It seems pointing out that Wales haven’t played that well isn’t going down well with Welsh fans. Sorry not here to cherrlead. Think I’ll switch Twitter off for now
— Brian Moore (@brianmoore666) March 11, 2018
Star man – George North
George North runs in Wales’ second try during their NatWest 6 Nations victory against Italy (David Davies/PA)
Northampton interim boss Alan Gaffney created plenty of headlines when he suggested North did not want to play for the Saints against Sale in the Aviva Premiership last week. But there was no questioning North’s commitment to the Wales cause, the wing shrugging off what was said to be a hip injury with two tries that showed power and strength.
Yellow peril
Stat attack
8 – @George_North now has 8 tries in 8 games against Italy, including at least one in each of his last five against them, only @ShaneWilliams11 (9) has scored more against the Azzurri. Update. pic.twitter.com/IFW94TQyFF
— OptaJonny (@OptaJonny) March 11, 2018
North took his Six Nations Championship haul to 17 tries with a score in each half. He powered over in the sixth minute after Owen Watkin had intercepted Maxime Mbanda’s pass and ran 60 metres, before barrelling his way over the line from close range. North has eight tries against Italy in as many matches, ship, and is only behind Shane Williams and Gareth Thomas on Wales’ all-time list in the tournament.
Who’s up next?
Italy v Scotland, NatWest 6 Nations – March 17
Wales v France, NatWest 6 Nations – March 17
