Ireland player ratings against Italy

Ireland survived a tricky test in Rome to run out 14-point winners over Italy. Here's how we rated the Irish performances.

15. Hugo Keenan – 8

Was his usual dependable self in the backfield and came up with a couple of important tackles. Showed great strength to finish off his try and, shorn of so many experienced players, his composure in the heat of battle was required.

14. Mack Hansen – 8

Took his tries well and showed great awareness to run off Conor Murray for the try that sealed the game. Carried 12 times for 76 metres and worked hard in defence. Named player of the match.

13. Bundee Aki – 6

Could have had a second try but knocked on before the line, ran hard all day but was it was a patchy performance, got picked off for Italy's second try was penalised in defence twice. Missed five tackles.

12. Stuart McCloskey – 6

The centre, who stepped in late for Garry Ringrose, got through a massive amount of work, making a joint-highest team tally of 14 tackles. Sloppy tackle on Ange Capuozzo for a penalty but was always there for Ross Byrne and carried 14 times. It was a novel centre pairing and Ringrose was missed.

11. James Lowe – 7

Seemed to be involved all the time and racked up 130 metres over eight carries. Left a couple of tries out there; had another good day with the boot.

10. Ross Byrne – 8

Controlled the game well in the absence of team captain Johnny Sexton, kicked one penalty and three conversions. Can be happy with his first Six Nations start.

9. Craig Casey – 7

Good distribution and worked well with Byrne. Was alert for an important early turnover and importantly kept his composure throughout the match.

1. Andrew Porter – 6

Gave away a silly penalty when Italy were coming back into the game and was