Wales cruise to Italian triumph

Wales 38 Italy 14

WALES moved up to second in the Six 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.

George North set the tone with a try double, while Hadleigh Parkes, Cory Hill and Justin Tipuric also crossed.

Gareth Anscombe kicked three conversions and a penalty, while sub Leigh Halfpenny added two conversions, although Italy initially refused to go quietly.

They replied through a touchdown for full-back Matteo Minozzi that fly-half Tomasso Allan converted, making it 14-7, before Mattia Bellini touched down late on.