The strong blue wall was determined to be tougher than the red one. It’s not surprising given how much Italy, led by Gonzalo Quesada, has been improving. However, the situation is becoming increasingly concerning for Wales. They have received the wooden spoon for the first time in 2003, prompting Warren Gatland to suggest the possibility of resigning. However, the CEO of the Welsh Rugby Union, Abi Tierney, rejected this offer.

“I just had a conversation with Abi in the changing rooms,” Gatland recalled. “I told her, ‘If you want me to step down, I am willing to do so.'” Abi responded with determination, saying, “No way. That’s the last thing I want. I am genuinely concerned about that.” Gatland reassured her that they would thoroughly review the situation.

The evaluation will be extensive. Wales was not on time and passes were not successful. Fundamentals mistakes and poor communication hindered them, and George North ended his remarkable international career on a negative note. However, this will not be his lasting legacy. “Italy showed us how to control and manage a game,” commented Gatland.

Reworded: In an unprecedented achievement, Italy has successfully avoided losing in three consecutive championship matches. After a significant loss to Ireland in the second round, they have secured a draw against France and wins against Scotland and Wales. While there are fresh players such as Louis Lynagh and Ross Vintcent, the utmost credit goes to their persistent captain, Michele Lamaro, who has once again displayed exceptional leadership in this game.

During the first half, one team dominated the game. Paolo Garbisi, Tommaso Menoncello, and Monty Ioane displayed impressive skills and coordinated well, resulting in a scoring opportunity on the left side, which Ioane successfully capitalized on after 19 minutes. Prior to the try, Garbisi had already converted two penalty kicks, adding to the lead for his team.

Tomos Williams’ run as the scrum-half put pressure on the opposition’s defense, causing excitement among the crowd. However, Lamaro quickly seized the opportunity and caused a turnover. Garbisi attempted a risky kick down the center, leading to a mistake between Cameron Winnett and Sam Costelow, resulting in a scrum for Italy. Previous teams under Gatland were tough to beat, but the current team offers more opportunities. Menoncello was just inches away from catching a cleverly placed kick near the tryline.

Before half-time, North had been involved multiple times, but it was Rio Dyer’s burst, five minutes into the second half, that had the fans cheering. Wales built up their play, but a neck roll by Adam Beard on Federico Ruzza put a stop to a potential attack. The Azzurri then took advantage and scored when Ioane’s perfectly timed pass set up Lorenzo Pani for a skillful and impressive goal.

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Quesada included Martin Page-Relo in the team, along with Vintcent, whose skillful tackle prevented Gareth Thomas from scoring near the tryline. However, after a TMO check, it was confirmed that Elliot Dee had managed to score. This earned Wales their first points on the board, with 15 minutes remaining to close the 11-point gap. But Italy’s smart game strategy, including Page-Relo’s well-placed kicks, added to their already positive performance. Just as Wales seemed to be making a comeback, Garbisi extended Italy’s lead. Later, Page-Relo scored another crucial penalty, which would ultimately prove to be the deciding factor in the match.

The score was secured for Wales by Will Rowlands who made what appeared to be a mere consolation, but in the final moments of the game, Mason Grady took advantage of space created by Kieran Hardy’s kick and scored under the posts. Although the bonus point was in Wales’ favor, it did not accurately reflect the dominant performance of Italy.

When asked about his emotions, Lamaro stated: “To be honest, I’m exhausted and can’t really process my feelings right now. I just want to celebrate this achievement with my long-time teammates. I’m extremely proud of my team.”

Regarding the alterations he has implemented as head coach, Quesada stated: “The intensity, determination, and unique identity that Italian rugby is known for needed to be evident in both our set plays and defense. The players’ faith and dedication were already immense prior to my arrival, and it continues to grow. However, it was important to organize and utilize that remarkable strength more effectively…that is the progress we aimed for and worked on together with our team leaders.”

In my opinion, our team performs well in both offensive and defensive situations. We discussed this strategy extensively. It’s about constantly attacking, not just with possession of the ball, but also with determined chasing. I believe the team has embraced this approach and today’s performance was the pinnacle of our efforts. They executed it flawlessly. Italy has an optimistic future and our current state is also satisfactory.

Source: theguardian.com