Laboured Ireland come from behind to beat Italy 20-13

DUBLIN, Feb 14 : Ireland had to come from behind to avoid their first Six Nations home defeat by Italy on Saturday as their bench rode to the rescue in a 20-13 win that was a laboured response to a chastening opening loss to France.

Buoyed by their win over Scotland, Italy deservedly led at halftime thanks to a try by hooker Giacomo Nicotera and five points from the boot of Paolo Garbisi. Ireland could only muster a Jamie Osborne try in response.

Italy, whose only Six Nations victory over the 2023 and 2024 champions came 13 years ago in Rome, were pegged back early in the second half through a Jack Conan try but it took Ireland's strong bench and a fine Robert Baloucoune try on his Six Nations debut to put the hosts ahead.

Italy refused to go down without a fight, however, and nervy Ireland had to hang on until the bitter end after a Garbisi penalty put the visitors within a converted try of what would have been a deserved draw.

Italy next travel to defending champions France while Ireland will need to be much better against England in Twickenham.