But, despite struggling to keep hold of the ball themselves, Parisse believes Italy will take plenty from the clash into their final RBS 6 Nations match with Scotland on Saturday.

“It was a very intense and tough game for us. We took on a team that is playing very well, and has a very quick three-quarter line,” he said.

“I’m proud of how we defended and how many times we turned the ball over in our own 22. Overall there is a lot to be positive about even if we didn’t have much possession.

“We fought for 80 minutes, there are improvements to be made and we’ll give it our all in Saturday’s game against Scotland”

Meanwhile full-back Andrea Masi urged his teammates to get themselves back up for the Scotland game at the Stadio Olimpico.

And, having shown promise in several games so far this campaign, a win over Andy Robinson’s winless Scots would avoid the Wooden Spoon for the first time since 2007.

“We gave it everything and played with heart but two mistakes cost us dear. We held on well against one of the best teams in the world at the moment,” said Masi.

“There are lots of positives to take from the game. We tried to raise the pace of the game a little in the second half but there was not enough left in the legs and as soon as we made a mistake they punished us.

“We were involved in a very tough game. Now we have to look towards Scotland next week. There is not much time to recover. We need to recharge the batteries and give it everything.

“The fans are waiting in Rome, we can’t let them down. Jacques Brunel is doing a great job, we believe in him, but obviously the results won’t come overnight.”