Italy secure historic win over Australia

FLORENCE - Livewire fullback Ange Capuozzo scored a brace of tries as Italy claimed a historic first victory over Australia at the 19th attempt with a 28-27 triumph in Florence yesterday.

Replacement flyhalf Ben Donaldson, making his debut, had the chance to convert a late Australian score for the win, but put his effort wide of the posts to signal jubilant celebrations from the Italian players.

Winger Pierre Bruno also scored a try for home side, who were full value for the victory and might have won by a greater margin had they not missed out on 14 points with kickable penalties and conversions.

“It means a lot for the boys, they grafted hard all game and we dug deep,” Welsh-born Italy scrumhalf Stephen Varney said.

“We are building well. We are proud to be part of this team and have great leaders. Capuozzo is an amazing player, he has turned up all year and put in strong performances. I’m really happy for him.”

Australia scored tries through winger Tom Wright, flanker Fraser McReight, prop Tom Robertson and lock Cadeyrn Neville, but gave away too many penalties through indiscipline and were poor on their own set-piece when in attacking positions.

“The boys are extremely disappointed,” Australia captain Allan Alaalatoa told reporters. “Turnovers really hurt us, especially the ones that we can control. That was the difference in the game.”

The defeat continued a miserable year for Australia in which they have lost eight tests, piling the pressure on head coach Dave Rennie 10 months out from the World Cup in France.

They face Ireland next Saturday and complete their autumn series against Wales. Italy host South Africa in their final fixture next weekend.