Wales pick up first Six Nations win in wooden-spoon battle with dogged Italy

Wales recorded a first win of their Guinness Six Nations campaign after beating Italy 29-17 at Stadio Olimpico.

Warren Gatland’s team arrived in Rome with the wooden spoon a realistic prospect following successive defeats against Ireland, Scotland and England.

But Italy, who wasted a host of chances, now look destined to finish bottom of the Six Nations table for an 18th time as Wales climbed off the basement.

Early tries by wing Rio Dyer and full-back Liam Williams rewarded a dominant early display, then a penalty try underpinned an impressive first-half performance that saw Wales build a 19-point advantage.