Italy produced a stunning all-round performance to shock France 23-18 at the Stadio Olimpico yesterday and blast the Six Nations wide open.

More usually contenders for the competition’s wooden spoon, Italy proved their victory over the French two seasons ago was no fluke as they defended well and took their chances against the 2011 World Cup runners-up.

Tries from captain Sergio Parisse and Martin Castrogiovanni, plus 10 points from man-of-the-match Luciano Orquera and three from substitute Kris Burton led them to victory, just their third ever over the French.

France were far from their best and despite tries from Louis Picamoles and Benjamin Fall and eight points from a rejuvenated Frederick Michalak, they were deservedly beaten by Jacques Brunel’s effervescent side.

“I’m really happy for the team and the fans, after two years we’ve beaten France again in Rome,” Orquera told reporters.

“We were mentally strong right from the beginning, we wanted to win at any cost and we were always in the match. We never gave up.”

Italy joined England and Ireland on two points and sit in third place after the first round of games, which included another upset as holders Wales lost 30-22 to Ireland on Saturday.

Next fixtures
Saturday: 3.30 p.m. Scotland vs Italy; 5 p.m. France vs Wales.
Sunday: 4 p.m. Ireland vs England.

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