Ireland's frustrations continue with Italy defeat

Ireland are still looking for their first win in the TikTok Women's Six Nations, after falling to a frustrating defeat to Italy in Parma.

Greg McWilliams side were beaten 24-7 by the Italians, and look set for a Round 5 wooden spoon showdown in Scotland in two weeks time.

It was an afternoon of huge frustration for Ireland, who dominated territory and possession but were left to rue a malfunctioning lineout, which saw them cough up a number of promising try-scoring opportunities in the Italian 22.

Having survived an early onslaught from the hosts, Ireland controlled possession in the opening half, while an ill-disciplined Italy conceded nine first half penalties, which gave Ireland regular attacking opportunities.

The hosts broke the stalemate in the 28th minute after some quality team play down the left wing saw Beatrice Rigoni offload to scrum-half Stefan who went over for a try that was converted by Michela Sillari.

The two-time champions were very much in the game at half time, despite trailing 7-0, but in reality they should have been level.

Having dominated the final minutes of the opening half, Ireland were awarded back-to-back penalties under the Italian posts, but turned down what would have been an easy three points in favour of going for a scrum and a shot at a levelling try. After a series of phases close to the tryline, a Grace Moore knock-on ended the attack, and relieved the pressure for Italy.

Ireland's task grew even greater just after the break with Alyssa D'Inca finished a wonderful counter-attack, which was also converted by Sillari, who made it 14-0.

Frustratingly, the try came directly from another turnover at the lineout, but take nothing away from the sweeping Italian counter, which went from touchline to