Irish claim Italian job

Italy

Ireland 50

17

HUGO KEENAN and Will Connors were among the try scorers after Ireland went top of the Six

Nations table as the tournament returned after a seven-month delay.

The debutants crossed in Ireland’s seven-try romp so whipping boys Italy – who play England next – will finish bottom for the fifth year in a row.

Keenan (below) crossed twice in the first half after CJ Stander darted over in reply to Paolo Garbisi’s early penalty.

Edoardo Padovani picked off Johnny Sexton’s pass to offer some brief joy for Italy but further tries from Connors, Jonny Sexton, Bundee Aki and Dave Heffernan killed it.

Rookie fly-half Garbisi grabbed a stunning solo try in the final play to put a dent in Ireland’s score difference, which could come into play next week.

Having easily secured the maximum five points, Ireland will travel to Paris knowing a bonus-point win against France will ensure they become champions.