Toner off to a winning start in rome

Moynalvey man and Meath sportsperson of the year Devin Toner featured today as Ireland negotiated a stubborn Italian defence to secure a 26-3 opening day win in the RBS Six Nations in Rome this afternoon.

Coach Joe Schmidt was last night inducted into the Westmeath Hall of Fame at the Westmeath Examiner Sports awards.

Today a dogged Italy defended well for most of the game at the Stadio Olimpico, but infringements at the breakdown handed Ireland a 9-3 lead early on.

Ian Keatley capitalised on ill-discipline by the hosts, but Kelly Haimona kept Italy in touch at the break with a penalty.

 

Ireland's two tries came in quick succession in the second half through Conor Murray and Tommy O'Donnell.

Next up for Schmidt’s charges is a St Valentine’s Day clash with France at Aviva Stadium.

Ireland - Rob Kearney, Tommy Bowe, Jared Payne, Robbie Henshaw, Simon Zebo, Ian Keatley, Conor Murray; Jack McGrath, Rory Best, Mike Ross, Devin Toner, Paul O’Connell, Peter O’Mahony, Tommy O’Donnell,  Jordi Murphy. Subs -  Sean Cronin for Best 46 mins, James Cronin for McGrath 67m, Marty Moore for Ross 51m, Iain Henderson for O’Mahony and Ian Madigan for Keatley both 65m, Felix Jones for Payne 67m, Isaac Boss for Murray 68m,