Italy 9 England 45
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(© Reuters) |
Will Greeenwood grabbed a brace and former captain Lawrence Dallaglio scored on his return to international rugby as England ran in six tries to finish off their Six Nations campaign with an emphatic victory over Italy today.
Dallaglio, who came on as a second-half replacement after almost a year out with a knee injury, ran in an easy try at a crucial time early in the second half after a break by flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson.
The game was meaningless for the outcome of the championship after France clinched the grand slam with their defeat of Ireland yesterday.
England struggled at times to sparkle against the Italians who have lost all of their Six Nations games this season.
Three tries from outstanding centre Will Greenwood, winger Ben Cohen and fullback Jason Robinson steered England to a comfortable 24-3 lead at halftime.
Italy made the English work hard at the start of the second half before the Dallaglio try lifted their game.
Greenwood then went over for his second try after a clever chip kick from replacement scrumhalf Matt Dawson from a penalty. Replacement Austin Healey then ran in the last try just before the final whistle.
Wilkinson kicked one penalty and five conversions with Dawson adding the other England conversion. Italy flyhalf Diego Dominguez struck three penalties.