The South African-born player kicked 15 points as Italy gave themselves a great chance of avoiding the wooden spoon in this years RBS 6 Nations by claiming only their third win since joining the tournament in 2000.

Had Italy lost, Kirwan would have been under considerable pressure, but De Marigny was keen to distance himself from talk that he had saved New Zealander Kirwans position.

I havent saved anyone, because from my point of view Kirwans position has never been in discussion, Kirwan told Italian newspaper La Gazzetta di Parma.

He is an incredible person who has given a great deal to Italian rugby.

He has also given me this great opportunity to play with the Azzurri and I would like to say thanks to him.

De Marigny then expressed optimism about his teams remaining games in the RBS 6 Nations.

Italy travel to Dublin to face Ireland on March 20 before they face Wales at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff a week later as the tournament draws to a close.

This Saturday we will begin training for the game in Dublin and I want to be in the best form possible, he continued.

Now we have two tough games away from home against the Irish and the Welsh.

Although these games will be difficult, our target is to win both matches.