Italy earn first away point with 18-18 Wales draw

Italy came desperately close to their first away win in the Six Nations yesterday before having to settle for an 18-18 draw with holders Wales at the Millennium Stadium. Italy, who joined the championship six years ago, had previously beaten Scotland...

Italy came desperately close to their first away win in the Six Nations yesterday before having to settle for an 18-18 draw with holders Wales at the Millennium Stadium.

Italy, who joined the championship six years ago, had previously beaten Scotland and Wales in Rome but this was their first point on their travels.

Wales were far superior in the first half and scored tries through winger Mark Jones and flyhalf Stephen Jones. However, Italy reached the break level at 15-15 after tries by backs Ezio Galon and Pablo Canavosio.

Flyhalf Ramiro Pez, who missed two penalties and a conversion, had Italy 18-15 ahead early in the second half before Stephen Jones's second penalty levelled it on the hour.

Neither side could force another score in a tense, error-strewn final 20 minutes.

Other result: Ireland vs Scotland 15-9.

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