The Millennium Stadium clash represented the first time the Azzurri had avoided defeat in a Six Nations game away from home.

And with Scotland lying in wait for Italy on Saturday, Bollesan is confident his players can provide a successful conclusion to this years tournament.

We are ready to beat Scotland, he said.

I know it will be very hard and it will be a true battle, but after the result against the Welsh at Cardiff, we are ready for this challenge.

Italy may be bottom of the RBS 6 Nations Championship table, but they have impressed with committed displays in defeat to Ireland, England and France, as well as in the draw against Wales.

Scotland have lit up the tournament with plucky home wins against France and England but they have lost both their away games so far - to Wales and Ireland.

Bollesan, however, believes Italy will need to perform at their very best if they are to beat the Scots.

I believe Frank Hadden men's are playing good rugby, but outside Murrayfield they haven't showed their best, he added.

There is an opportunity to get maximum points, but we really have to play our best ever game in the Six Nations.

It would be nice to see our fans celebrate our first victory in this years tournament, but I must stress we must play our best game ever to achieve it.