Six Nations: Italy 18 Scotland 15Pressure mounted on Gregor Townsend as Scotland suffered a disastrous Six Nations start by losing 18-15 to Italy in rain-lashed Rome. Italy reasserted their authority in the 35th minute with a Garbisi penalty seconds after the stand-off had sent a drop goal attempt wide of the target. Trailing by eight points at the break, a Russell penalty in the 46th minute brought the Scots back to within a score. But the Italians swiftly replied with another Garbisi penalty after Ewan Ashman, who was having a torrid afternoon, was penalised for a high tackle. Russell sent his conversion attempt wide.

Source: Irish Examiner February 07, 2026 21:02 UTC