Wales completely dominated the first half where Italy managed to exit their own half only twice. But despite Wales’ total domination on the pitch they only had a Lowri Harries try and a Robyn Wilkins penalty to their name at halftime.
Italy proved an entirely different proposition in the second half as the bigger pack rumbled into gear. While Wales showed plenty of endeavour and adventure in attack in the first half, it was their staunch defence which kept their lead intact in the second spell.
However the rearguard was finally breached in the 61st minute when hooker Melissa Bettoni crashed her way over after a sustained period of pressure. Michela Sillari’s excellent conversion put Italy just one point behind and suddenly their self-belief was visible.
Wales edged further ahead when debutant Robyn Wilkins kicked a penalty in the 64th minute but with Italy’s juggernaut pack being urged forward by scrum half Sara Barattin at every opportunity, Wales’ defence was being forced to work overtime.
Eventually Italy managed to work their way towards the corner flag and with four minutes remaining flanker Ilaria Arrighetti delivered the killer blow when she powered her way over from close range.
Wales rallied in the dying minutes but the driving rain made handling a lottery and when Sioned Harries spilled the ball forward, Italy gleefully took the honours.
In defeat, Wales newcomer Wilkins had an exceptional game on debut. She attacked the gainline with gusto and her well timed passes put her outside backs into space to give wings Laurie Harries and Philippa Tuttiett along with full back Dyddgu Hywel plenty of opportunities to run at the Italians.
Up front props Megan York and skipper Catrin Edwards caught the eye with several rampaging bursts while Nia Davies impressed in the engine room from second row.
Wales Women’s head coach Rhys Edwards admitted the narrow defeat was a bitter pill to swallow.
“It’s a tough one to take to be honest,” he said. “The way we were playing in the first half we maybe should have been 20 points ahead to have the game in the bag by halftime.
“In the past when we’ve played any Italian team if we’re not two scores ahead there’s always going to be a chance for them. We talked about the next score being a game changer either way. Once Italy get a sniff it always turns into a bit of a battle.
“I don’t think the ball went passed their scrum half in the last 20 minutes – we just knew it was going to be a case of holding on but unfortunately we weren’t able to hang on.”
Scorers: Wales: Try: Lowri Harries; Pens: Robyn Wilkins (2)
Italy: Tries: Melissa Bettoni, Ilaria Arrighetti; Con: Michela Sillari.
