We’ve a second chance

WARREN GATLAND was happy to get the job done as Wales saw off Italy to ensure they remain in control of the battle for Six Nations second spot.

The home side were sparkling in parts but sloppy in others as they scored five tries to register a bonus-point win.

Wales go into the final weekend with a one-point advantage over England and France – and another bonus-point success against Les Bleus in Cardiff on Saturday will see them confirmed as runners-up to champions Ireland.

George North with two, Hadleigh Parkes, Cory Hill and Justin Tipuric scored the Welsh tries. But they suffered two yellow cards and were reduced to 13 men early in the second half.

Coach Gatland said: “It was a job done, it’s what we wanted. We’ve given players an opportunity. To make 10 changes, score the points we did and win comfortably was the pleasing aspect.

“At times we looked absolutely outstanding and great while at other times we lacked cohesion. But that’s probably to be expected when guys haven’t played together.

“Some elements of the game were frustrating and we’ll go away and work on that. But we achieved what we wanted to do, to get a bonus point and have our destiny in our own hands next week to finish second.”