Italy captain Sergio Parisse says their shock win over France was fully justified this time.
Two years ago, Italy claimed their first Six Nations victory over Les Bleus but Parisse admitted there was an element of good fortune about that 22-21 win at the Stadio Flaminio.
Yesterday, at an electric Stadio Olimpico in Rome, the Azzurri stunned the visitors again with tries from Parisse and Martin Castrogiovanni but the skipper says this 23-18 victory meant more.
“Whereas two years ago France didn’t win because there were a couple of scrums at the end where we got lucky with the referee, I think this time we deserved it,” said Parisse. “I can honestly say I am proud of my team but we have to stay humble and recover well because we have Scotland next.”
A faultless kicking display from Luciano Orquera was key for Italy and the fly-half said: “We were mentally extremely strong right from the beginning, we wanted to win at any cost and we never gave up.”
France captain Pascal Pape could miss Saturday’s match against Wales after injuring his back.
MORE ABOUT