Johnstone proving his point

Italy make life difficult for the Scots

Italy coach Brad Johnstone is beginning to win over his critics despite his side's poor record.

The New Zealander has not made life easy for himself since joining the club over a year ago.

Italy, the newest member of the northern hemisphere's elite Six Nations club, have lost all four of their games in this season's tournament.

They were defeated 23-19 by Scotland at Murrayfield on Saturday but turned in a spirited performance, coming their closest yet to pulling off a victory.

Italy's gradual improvement seems to be convincing his critics that the former All Black prop, who has always said he is planning for the 2003 World Cup, should be given his head.

Johnstone and Italy: Cultural differences

Johnstone's two-year contract expires in December but until the France game earlier this month it was being reported that he would leave after the Six Nations Tournament.

Italian Rugby Federation president Giancarlo Dondi, who has had tetchy relations with Johnstone, was far more conciliatory after the Murrayfield match.

"Brad is adapting to our mentality," said Dondi. "He has understood we cannot all become New Zealanders.

"His position as coach is not in question and if his moving towards our culture continues then the door is open for the future," he said.

Difficult start

Johnstone singularly failed to adopt the 'when in Rome, do as the Romans do' mantra in his first year in charge.

He admits he only speaks minimal Italian, and his only concession to the local press in post-match conferences is to throw in the odd word.

"The scrum was 'forte', the pack 'excellente'," was one recent quote.

He also alienated some by naming and shaming players, acceptable in Anglo-Saxon cultures but frowned upon in Italy.

The Kiwi has been more conciliatory in recent weeks, and that - combined with Italy's gradual improvement - is producing a thaw in relations.

And Johnstone is also getting recognition for sterling work in some departments, particularly the scrum.

His wife is reported to love Roman life and his two daughters have also adapted well with the elder, engaged to an Italian, acting as Johnstone's interpreter at press conferences.

Johnstone may yet be given the chance to develop a young and largely amateur team to take to the next tournament in Australasia.

Victory against Wales in Italy's final Six Nations match in Rome would help.