Italy v Wales LIVE: Six Nations result and reaction as Wales continue losing streak with harrowing defeat
Italy 22-15 Wales: Warren Gatland’s visitors fell to a 14th straight defeat as the Azzurri were too strong in Rome
Warren Gatland's position as Wales head coach was left hanging by a thread after his team lost 22-15 against Italy at Stadio Olimpico and lurched towards a second successive Six Nations wooden spoon.
Wales' 14th successive Test match defeat could be the final straw for Gatland's Welsh Rugby Union bosses. They have promised a detailed review of Wales' Six Nations performances after the tournament and matters are hardly likely to improve given that remaining fixtures are against Ireland, Scotland and England.
It was Gatland's 20th loss in 26 Tests since returning for a second stint at the helm, an eighth Six Nations reversal in a row and the first time Wales have suffered back-to-back defeats against Italy.
They also slumped to a new world ranking low of 12th, with Georgia climbing above them following their Rugby Europe Championship victory over the Netherlands in Tbilisi.
Relive all the action from the Stadio Olimpico in our live blog below:
Italy 16-3 Wales 48 mins
A great break from Wales! Blair Murray bursts through the Italian defence, but his kick ahead is easily beaten by Allan.
Dan Edwards has come on. It will be interesting to see how he manages the people around him. This is the fly-half’s second cap for Wales.
Italy 16-3 Wales 46 mins
Another poor moment as Tomos Williams sends a box kick straight out after Morgan’s hard work on the ground. Wales look out of their depth.
Lamaro excels at the breakdown once again, showcasing Italy’s dominance in that area today.
Italy now have a chance to launch an attack inside the Wales 22.
Italy 16-3 Wales 42 mins
Wales are in search of something dynamic to change the momentum of this game.
The weather seems to have eased - this should help Wales in terms of their game plan.
Wales secure their first lineout turnover of the match thanks to Rowlands, which should boost their confidence.
Italy 16-3 Wales 40 mins
We are back underway in Roman with Italy kicking things off for us.
Wales will need to score next if they are to avoid another defeat.
Sergio Parisee: 'Italy are clinical'
“Italy are playing smart and kicking to apply pressure.
“They dominate the scrum and often have the advantage. Italy were clinical and scored points, that was a brilliant first-half for them.”
Dan Biggar: 'Huge amount of work to do'
Dan Biggar speaking on ITV:
“Wales have a huge amount of work to do. The conditions have played a big part in Wales’ lack of discipline and penalties conceded from handling errors.
“On the other hand, Italy have been excellent, they had a clear plan and stuck to it.
“Wales have tried to play a few phases, but in these conditions you don’t want the ball. You want to be kicking and trying to squeeze other teams that way.”
Half-time Italy 16-3 Wales
Italy have a very healthy lead at half-time, especially in these troubling conditions.
It was crucial for Wales to hit back before the break, falling short it looks like Italy will have the upper-hand in the second half.
Wales are showing some good play in parts, but they lack accuracy. In these conditions, the skill level needs to be just that bit sharper and more commanding.
Italy 16-3 Wales, 38 mins
Another knock-on for Wales.
Unfortunately, Wales' passing isn’t up to standard. It’s too slow and lacking accuracy. This could cost them the game.
Italy 16-3 Wales, 36 mins
Wales miss a huge chance!
They just missed what could’ve been a glorious opening try.
Tomos Williams delivers a great kick through for Adams down the left, but, the winger fails to gather the ball in difficult conditions, just meters from the try line.
Italy 16-3 Wales, 34 mins
Knock-on for Wales results in more points for Italy.
Wales will have a scrum in Italy's half, but it’s a clear sign of how frustrating their attack has been.
This is concerning for Warren Gatland as we approach half-time.
You’d think in these conditions Wales would be better suited but, it’s Italy that are in control.
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