Italy 6-35 South Africa: Springboks run in five tries against Italy
Last Updated: 25/11/17 5:39pm
There was to be no repeat of Italy's surprise victory over South Africa as the Springboks thrashed the home side 35-6 in their rugby Test in Padua on Saturday.
Italy started brightly but South Africa survived the early onslaught and led by three converted tries at half-time.
Francois Louw scored the first try, then Bongi Mbonambi, Francois Venter and replacement Steven Kitshoff all scored their first tries for South Africa.
Fly-half Handre Pollard wasn't accurate off the tee in the narrow victory over France last weekend, missing three penalties and a conversion but he converted four tries before being replaced by Elton Janties, who converted the fifth and last score by Franco Mostert.
Italy recorded their first victory over South Africa last year, winning 20-18 in Florence, but have now lost 11 of their last 12 matches, with their solitary victory came in the first autumn Test against Fiji.
"They were too strong for us, above all physically," conceded Italy coach Conor O'Shea. "Their forwards are on another level. Our first 20 minutes were good and I remain confident but South Africa are better."
The win will be a welcome relief for under-pressure South Africa coach Allister Coetzee who has rebuilt his side since last November's 20-18 defeat with just five players from that dark day in Florence playing this time out.
It gives the Springboks a boost heading to Wales next weekend after edging France 18-17 in Paris last week following a 38-3 mauling by Ireland in Dublin on November 11.
It is the second straight defeat for Italy after losing 31-15 to Argentina in Florence last weekend.
"It's a pity we couldn't build on our good start to the match," said captain Parisse. "Defeat is difficult but these three weeks were very positive for the future.
"A group has been built, we're working well, I remain confident. But the results speak for themselves and we can't be satisfied with a defeat like today."