Disjointed England held off a spirited Italy to win 17-12 at the Stadio Flaminio in their Six Nations clash yesterday as the hosts came as close as ever to a first victory against their opponents.

Although England kept alive their hopes of a first Grand Slam and championship since 2003, it was the Italians who emerged with greatest credit from a tight game that kept fans in the packed stadium on the edge of their seats right to the final whistle.

That was in no small part thanks to an uncharacteristically erratic kicking performance from Jonny Wilkinson, who missed two penalties and a conversion, all from good positions.

Mathew Tait scored the only try six minutes into the second half and Wilkinson kicked a drop goal to seal victory after Italy had pulled within two points late on with Mirco Bergamasco's fourth successful penalty.

England captain Steve Borthwick said that he thought England had been impressive.

"Preferably one likes to win by large margins but Italy are a tough side," he said.

Standings: France, England 4; Ireland, Wales 2; Scotland, Italy 0.