Italy came close to springing the first upset of the tournament when they were narrowly beaten 23-21 in the opening match of the 2016 Six Nations. A late attempt at a dropgoal from number eight Sergio Parisse went wide, and France hung on for victory in an entertaining clash.
Italy had led 18-10 at the Stade de France before a Hugo Bonneval try on 59 minutes, and two penalties from Jules Plisson, gave the hosts their first win under new coach Guy Noves.
Buen partido del conjunto italiano, igualado al parecer. Algunos fallos del equipo italiano fueron aprovechados muy bien por los franceses. En general, merecida victoria para los locales.
I'm pretty sure that the drop goal was the only glaring mistake Italy made all afternoon. 15 man rugby, not just Parisse vs The World.
I think it helps that so many regular players are out, it gives the un-jaded young bloods a chance to give it hell. They weren't there to compete, they were there to WIN.
After coming within inches of a 2nd try, and a rather questionable refereeing decision, it would be ludicrous to blame the loss on The Chosen One. France played well to get themselves back into the game and the win, they haven't always had that resilience when their back is against the wall
Don't agree on the high tackle as Parisse ducked down
Agree it was a harsh penalty as Camara didn't hold Parisse enough. France was lucky on that one.
Impressed by Parisse perf, he was always everywhere for the best, and rarely for the worst.. with that dropgoal.
Mixed feelings towards les bleus. Plisson, Bezy, Danty and Vakatawa were great but the defence and the pack were TOO permissive. France won't win vs Ireland if they aren't agressive enough in the rucks battle
Nacho, I completely agree. He was not held and was completely within his rights to continue.
What an awesome player Parisse is.
First try: wins the lineout AND scores the try. Presumably he calls their lineouts as well.
Second try: so close to scoring himself and still has the wherewithal to present clean ball, (how often do we see players reach for the try then just lose the ball).
That intercept knock-on was a bit unlucky and showed great positivity. Also he could have been more cynical when that penalty was awarded - most players would have at least chucked the ball away so the French couldn't take it quickly, (not right but everyone does it).
Massive error by the officials in giving that penalty against him at the end when he was clearly *not* held in the tackle.
The drop goal attempt? Well, he's a number 8 so let's give him the benefit of the doubt.
I think France can consider themselves very lucky indeed to have come away from this game with a win.