Former great Dominguez still believes in bright future for Italy

Diego Dominguez, Italy's highest-ever points scorer, played a major role in their Six Nations beginnings and, despite their struggles since, is optimistic for Italian rugby's future.

Dominguez scored 983 points and without him Italy may not even be involved in the Six Nations today. He helped Italy to wins over Ireland, Scotland and France in the 90s, which paved the way for their inclusion.

Italy made their Six Nations debut in 2000 against Scotland in Rome, where Dominguez kicked 29 points as they pulled off a surprise 34-20 win.

"It was an extraordinary game, for Italy's rugby movement, for the team on the field, for the people who watched in the stands," Dominguez told Reuters.

"We were underdogs and Scotland arrived as champions, but that day they found a very united team, with a lot of character, where many things came easily."

Things do not come so easily these days. Italy go into Saturday's game at home to Scotland still without a victory this year, but Dominguez has seen plenty of positives and believes they should have won in France.

A late penalty miss meant the game ended in a 13-13 draw after Paolo Garbisi almost ran out of time when the ball fell from the tee as French players advanced illegally and his kick hit the post.

"They clearly broke the laws which are very clear. It was a young referee, his first Six Nations game, but this was a serious mistake," Dominguez said.

"It wasn't just once, they advanced two or three times. The kick wasn't difficult, but the ball falls, they come in front of him, anyway, Italy deserved to win.

"Next is Scotland, who for me were one of the favourites before the championship started. We'll have a full stadium in Rome and two very motivated teams."

DROP GOAL

Dominguez hit three drop