HIGHLIGHTS | Ireland pick up third successive bonus point win in Six Nations against stubborn Italy

A strong final quarter helped the Irish past their hosts to keep them on top of the table ahead of France who overcame Scotland.

A brace from Mack Hansen, a try from the captain, James Ryan, and one each from Hugo Keenan and Bundee Aki secured a third consecutive bonus point for Ireland in this year’s Championship.

However, it was far from straight forward for the championship leaders against Italy who remain without a win despite a trio of positive performances.

It finished 20-34 in Ireland’s favour with a late try from Hansen eventually enough to see off a stubborn Italy side who got within four points in the third quarter.

Ireland had secured the bonus point inside the first half with Hansen, Aki, Keenan and Ryan all crossing. The writing was on the wall early on following Ryan’s early score but the half time deficit was only seven with Italy refusing to give up.

But a strong final quarter helped the Irish past their hosts to keep them on top of the table ahead of France who recovered from their second-round defeat in Dublin to overcome Scotland.

Ireland now have another week off before their trip to Murrayfield in Round Four where they will continue their quest for a Grand Slam.

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