France edge Italy in another Six Nations thriller
France got their Six Nations title defence off to a winning start after squeezing past Italy 29-24 in Rome on Sunday. Thibaud Flament, Thomas Ramos, debutant Ethan Dumortier and Matthieu Jalibert scored tries at the Stadio Olimpico to give France a tight bonus point victory which pulls them level on five points with Ireland and Scotland. The French, however, were a long way short of the side that won the Grand Slam last year, giving away 18 penalties and almost handing the game to an Italy side revitalised by their Autumn victory over Australia. "There is nothing to jump around about after this victory," said France captain Antoine Dupont. "We were too indisciplined, we gave away too many penalties. We know very well that at this level this is not acceptable and that we will have to rectify that quickly." Italy acquitted themselves well, with Ange Capuozzo's score before half-time, a penalty try and 12 points from Tommaso Allan ensuring the hosts put up a decent fight. France face Ireland in Dublin next Saturday while Italy travel to Twickenham to meet England on Sunday. (AFP)