France crush Italy to near grand slam

France relied on their trademark flair to outplay Italy 46-20 and stay firmly on course for a grand slam in the Six Nations yesterday.

The home side ran in six tries including two from centre David Marty and earned 16 points from the reliable boot of scrumhalf Morgan Parra.

Italy, who had recorded a rare win over Scotland in their previous outing, had to be content with two penalties from wing Mirco Bergamasco and late consolation tries from substitutes Carlo Del Fava and Pablo Canavosio, both converted by Bergamasco.

France will chase their first victory in the championship since 2007 and their first grand slam since 2004 when they host England on the same Stade de France pitch next Saturday.

Standings: France 8 points; Ireland 6; England 5; Wales, Italy 2; Scotland 1.