Having also lost at Murrayfield against Scotland, Italy’s opening-day success against France now seems a distant memory.

Next up, Brunel’s men become the latest side to attempt to end unbeaten England’s Grand Slam hopes at Twickenham, and Brunel wants an improvement in their all-round play after seeing his side concede two tries, while all nine of their points came from the boot of Kris Burton.

"In the first half we didn't take advantage of our field possession,” said Brunel.

"In the second half we had a chance at the start to get a try but we didn't control up front and then the match was decided a few minutes later.

“Our play with the boot was a bit inconsistent. They were more precise.”