This second-half triple was added to a first-half try by Niamh Kavanagh to cancel out Flavia Severin opening try for the hosts - and Niamh Briggs got in on the action with two penalties.

Italy got off to a flyer as patient build-up play was rewarded when lock Severin crossed on the half-hour - the hosts deservedly leading 5-0 after dominating the opening exchanges.

But they were unable to hold onto the lead heading into the break as first full-back Briggs kicked her first penalty and then wing Kavanagh crossed for a try on her debut, dashing 40 yards and beating several defenders to give her side an 8-5 interval lead.

Ireland dominated the second 40 minutes and Briggs added a second penalty almost immediately after the restart.
But it wasn't until the 54th minute that Ireland - including seven debutants in their side - were able to add their second try, hooker Bourne crashing over.

And victory was assured with flanker Molloy and wing Kelly touching down in the 68th and 74th minute respectively.