Rome - Following a magnificent win in Scotland in their previous game, Italy were quickly brought back down to earth last weekend, losing 29-0 against a rampant French side. The Azzurri will face Wales on Saturday in their final game of the 2015 Six Nations.

 Spirits were high in Rome on Sunday as Italy welcomed France to the Stadio Olimpico for the fourth fixture of this year’s Six Nations. The home side were coming off the back of a memorable win at Murrayfield and celebrating their Sergio Parisse’s record breaking 112^th cap.

 However it didn’t take long for the home supporters’ moods to darken as a rash of defensive errors enabled France to take a 9-0 lead into the break. Having lost fly-halves Kelly Haimona and Tommaso Allen to injury, the Azzurri were always going to be up against it, however the strong French pack were well placed to take advantage.

 The one-sidedness continued into the second period as Maestri scored his first try for France and the mighty Mathieu Bastereaud piled over the try line in stoppage time. The resulting conversion ensured that the contest finished 29-0 to Les Bleus.

 All is not lost however, as despite the heavy defeat against the French, Italy still have an important role to play in this year’s tournament. Following the Welsh victory over Ireland last time out, the overall winner will likely be decided by points difference.  If the Italians manage to beat Wales or limit the margin of any Welsh victory, Ireland or England will win the tournament.

 Furthermore, 2015 is World Cup year and every good performance will give Italy hope that they can be more competitive on the grandest stage. There is plenty to play for at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday and home supporters will be hoping for an Italian backlash.