But tries from Catrin Edwards and Lowri Harries – and two Laura Prosser penalties – sealed a thrilling 16-15 victory and maintained Wales’ hopes of securing automatic qualification for next year’s World Cup.

Now Wales will travel to Scotland, seeking a second win of the competition and Edwards admits his side will go there riding the crest of a wave.

“Fair play to the girls, they followed the game plan brilliantly and Italy didn't have any answers,” said Edwards.

“I can't single out any players because each and every player contributed to a fantastic win. There’s no reason why we should fear anyone after picking up the victory against what has been a very impressive Italian side this season.

“The forwards laid a solid platform and the backs defended stoutly. Italy never really offered a lot.

“We made a couple of errors when the girls got a little bit excited but they put that behind them to do a job on Italy – I'm really proud of them.”