Chris Harris scores two tries as Scotland record convincing victory in Italy

Chris Harris scored two first-half tries as Scotland overcame a sticky start to record a convincing bonus-point 33-22 victory over Italy in their Guinness Six Nations match in Rome.

Gregor Townsend’s side struggled early on but once they sparked into life they were too strong for their hosts, who were consigned to the wooden spoon once again.

Sam Johnson, Darcy Graham and captain Stuart Hogg got the other tries on a pleasant spring day at Stadio Olimpico as the Scots recovered from back-to-back defeats against Wales and France to claim the inaugural Cuttitta Cup, named in honour of ex-Italy captain and Scotland coach Massimo Cuttitta.

Full-Time | We earn a bonus point win in Rome!#ITAvSCO | #AsOne pic.twitter.com/M6duokNsE4

— Scottish Rugby (@Scotlandteam) March 12, 2022

Italy went in to the match without a Six Nations victory since winning away to Scotland in 2015 and it looked in the early stages like they might finally be equipped to end their seven-year drought.

The hosts enjoyed the majority of territory and possession in the opening quarter of an hour and were unfortunate not to have more than just a fourth-minute penalty from Paolo Garbisi to show for their efforts.

Gregor Townsend’s side suddenly sparked into life in the 17th minute, however, as they edged themselves in front with a brilliant try.

George Turner started the move on the right before Ali Price, Darcy Graham and Finn Russell – with an outstanding offload – all played their part in shifting the ball across to the left for Johnson to touch down. Russell sent his conversion attempt just wide.

Five minutes later, Russell appeared to have put his side in trouble with a loose pass deep inside his own half but Price – on his 50th appearance – made a superb