Dominant Ireland ease past Italy 36-0 in Six Nations

DUBLIN :Ireland were far too strong for Italy on Sunday, making it two Six Nations' bonus point wins from two with a dominant 36-0 win at the Aviva Stadium that kept their hopes of defending their grand slam title firmly on track.

Andy Farrell made six changes from the team that swept aside France 38-17 a week ago and while it wasn't perfect, Ireland successfully flexed their squad depth and Italy simply could not cope with the host's big ball carriers and fast paced attack.

Two tries from Dan Sheehan and one apiece for Jack Crowley, Jack Conan, James Lowe and Calvin Nash put Ireland two points clear of England at the top of the standings and streets ahead of the competition in the form table.

"We're aware of the threat that Italy's attack brings, so to keep them to zero is very pleasing," captain Caelan Doris said after Ireland kept a Six Nations opponent scoreless for the first time since 1987.

"The temptation sometimes when there are a lot of changes and guys are getting opportunities is to try and impress individually but we spoke about sticking to our systems, making each other look good and I think we did for the most part."

Ireland's intent was clear from the get go as they looked to move the ball as quickly as possible, creating gaps through the sheer speed of the phases with flyhalf Crowley crossing over for his first international try on eight minutes.

Crowley was by no means flawless against France as he seeks to make the Johnny Sexton vacated spot his own, but he looked extremely comfortable with ball in hand early on, even if he almost gifted Italy a way back into the game with a loose kick.

Ireland had to be patient as Italy found space of their own, just as they had in defeat by England last week. It was Crowley