Jones hat-trick secures Scots opening Six Nations win over Italy

A hat-trick of tries by Huw Jones inspired Scotland to a 31-19 victory over Italy in their Six Nations match at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Two of Jones's tries in the second half secured the host's victory -- with a bonus point to boot -- after Italy had battled back from 14-0 down to level at 19-19.

The Scots are home to two-time defending champions Ireland next weekend, while Italy hosts a Wales side nursing their wounds after a 43-0 thrashing by France.

Co-skipper Rory Darge got the Scots on the board in the fourth minute with his sixth try in his 26th Test -- his fellow captain Finn Russell converted for 7-0.

Five minutes later, the Scots were over again as Duhan van der Merwe selflessly fed Jones, who finished off a move started by Jamie Ritchie -- Russell converted for 14-0.

Two penalties from Tommaso Allan reduced the lead to eight points.

The Scots were far more incisive in terms of building attacks, Italy captain Michele Lamaro forcing a knock-on from Russell yards from the line prevented a third try.

However, their pressure paid off, scrumhalf Ben White raising his arm in celebration after he went over, hooker Dave Cherry's sublime offload setting it up.

Cherry, previously best known in his Test career for being ruled out of the 2023 Rugby World Cup after falling down the stairs at the team hotel, earned a kiss on his bald pate from White in appreciation.

Russell missed with the conversion to leave the hosts 19-6 in front.

The Scots were denied a fourth try as Paolo Garbisi won a penalty for Italy deep inside his 22, which prompted Scots head coach Gregor Townsend to hit the wall of the coach's booth in frustration.

That allowed the visitors to breathe a little, and Allan's unerring boot added three points to their tally