Wales close in on Grand Slam

Wales are one win away from a third Six Nations Grand Slam in eight years after defeating stubborn Italy 24-3 in Cardiff.

Wales went into half-time with a slender 9-3 lead courtesy of three Leigh Halfpenny penalties. Jamie Roberts calmed Welsh nerves with a long-range try early in the second half, before Alex Cuthbert added gloss on the scoreline late on.

Warren Gatland’s side started brightly at the Millennium Stadium but were left frustrated by Italy’s determined defensive line. Halfpenny and Mirco Bergamasco exchanged penalties as the Azzurri settled into the match.

Despite Italy’s resilience, Wales were doing most of the running and Halfpenny kicked two further penalties before the break. Those following the latest rugby betting odds will have been impressed.

Wales effectively made the game safe ten minutes into the second half when they turned the ball over deep inside their own half and launched an incisive counter attack. Roberts received the ball just inside his own half, stepped between two Italian defenders and raced clear to finish under the posts.

Halfpenny converted the try but his afternoon turned sour soon after when he was sent to the sin bin following a clumsy challenge on Italy captain Sergio Parisse.

Italy enjoyed a spell of possession as they searched for a way back into the contest. Unfortunately for the visitors, they failed to make their man advantage count and Rhys Priestland extended Wales’ lead to 16 points with a penalty. Fans of the Heineken Cup odds will have been impressed by his efforts.

Roberts was denied a second try when Rhys Webb was penalised for blocking. But Wales weren’t to be denied three minutes from time. Cuthbert showed speed and strength to finish in the corner after quick thinking by Gethin Jenkins.

Wales will secure the Grand Slam and Six Nations title with victory over France in Cardiff on Saturday, while Italy face a Wooden Spoon clash against Scotland in Rome.