Kirwan rues missed opportunity

Kirwan rues missed opportunity

Italy coach John Kirwan blamed a high error count for his side's failure to record a second Six Nations victory of the season against Scotland.

Mirko Bergamasco scored the opening try of the game

The Azzurri scored three tries and enjoyed plenty of second-half possession but still came up short in a 33-25 defeat at Murrayfield.

"The team played for 80 minutes and we're disappointed we didn't come away with a win but it was a good game of rugby," Kirwan said.

"Scotland defended well but we made too many errors, especially in the last 20 minutes of the first half."

Match report: Scotland 33-25 Italy

Despite the defeat, Kirwan is satisfied with Italy's progress during his first Six Nations campaign.

"I believe it's been a good tournament for us and we have developed during it but we need to learn to win matches in these situations," he added.

"Our objective was to win a game and to gain respect in the world of rugby and also to show that we are a side who can compete without giving away penalties.

Italy competed well for the full 80 minutes

"Before today's game we were the cleanest side in the tournament but there is still a lot of work to be done ahead of the World Cup."

Kirwan paid tribute to Scotland's performance in coach Ian McGeechan's last Six Nations match.

He added: "They played pretty much the way we expected with passion, heart and in a physical way.

"But we knew if we could keep possession we could put them under pressure and get some tries.

"But Scotland will be pleased with their win and they should be very proud of the way they played."