They had great desire and good charactar and they used the ball very well. They dominated the scrum and the forwards provided some very good quality possession both in the scrum and in the lineout.

The most important thing was to win even if it was not the prettiest game I have seen but the main thing is that we won. That will motivate us more and help us to be more confident in our work.

I would have to say that all the forwards did well but I have to single anyone out it will be (Roland) De Marigny who had an excellent game at stand-off.

Playing Ireland will be a different matter, however.

Not including any injury problems there might be I would expect a very similar team.

We must remember that Ireland have beaten the world champions in their own stadium and have proved to everyone that they are a very good team. Italy will have to step up their game even more.

Against England, I think the Irish showed a great maturity and they fielded a complete team of players of very high quality with an excellent second row that made life very difficult for England and limited their ability to play from the lineout.

This year Italy have been much fitter than before and we have certainly made progress in defence although there is still some work needed on our creative game.

Regarding Italys chances, as a player I would expect to win. A player must go out on the pitch thinking they can win the match but honestly I think it will be very difficult.

On the other hand Italy have nothing to lose. After beating Scotland they can be confident.