Italy 18-40 France

Italy v France Match Reports

France scored four tries as they beat Italy 40-18 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. Italy started strongly with captain Sergio Parisse scoring a try in the 3rd minute, and Carlo Canna adding two first-half penalties. However, Gael Fickou scored a try in the 21st minute, and three Camille Lopez penalties meant that France were leading 16-11 at half-time. Lopez added a further penalty kick shortly after the break, before Virimi Vakatawa scored a try to extend the French lead. As in previous matches, Italy faded as the second half wore on and France took advantage. Louis Picamoles and Brice Dulin both scored in the final quarter to give France a bonus point victory. Angelo Esposito also scored a late consolation try for Italy. A selection of match reports is listed below:

• BBC: France keep slim title hopes alive with bonus-point win in Italy
• Guardian: France put Italy in their place after Gaël Fickou gets them going
• Independent: Italy drop no-ruck tactics but are soundly beaten by France to end up with the wooden spoon once again
• Telegraph: Fickou, Vakatawa, Picamoles, Dulin tries secure win and bonus point for Les Bleus
• Daily Mail: Brice Dulin seals bonus point victory as Les Blues triumph in Rome
• ESPN: France dominate second half in comfortable win over Italy
• RBS 6 Nations: France find scoring form to ease past Italy