Wales endured another disappointing Women’s Six Nations campaign after suffering a heavy 43-24 defeat to Italy in Cardiff, sealing a third consecutive Wooden Spoon for the hosts.
The defeat also stretched Wales’ winless run to a record nine Test matches, increasing pressure on head coach Sean Lynn following another difficult campaign.
The contest was evenly poised during an entertaining first half, with both sides scoring three tries each. Wales crossed through Courtney Keight, Carys Cox and Kelsey Jones, while Italy responded with tries from Vittoria Ostuni Minuzzi, Francesca Granzotto and Alyssa D’Inca. Keira Bevan’s successful conversions gave Wales a narrow lead heading into the break.
However, Italy took complete control after half-time as the visitors exposed Wales’ defensive fatigue and dominated the closing stages of the match.
Ostuni Minuzzi grabbed her second try of the afternoon, while Francesca Sgorbini and Veronica Madia also crossed to help Italy surge past the 40-point mark in an emphatic away victory.
Kayleigh Powell managed a late consolation try for Wales, but it did little to soften the disappointment for the home side in front of the Cardiff crowd.
The victory marked Italy’s second win of the Women’s Six Nations campaign and highlighted the steady progress being made by the Azzurre under continued development. The match also served as an emotional farewell for veteran Italian lock Valeria Fedrighi.
For Wales, the latest setback is expected to trigger serious questions about the direction of the team, especially after managing just one victory in 15 Tests under Lynn’s leadership.
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