And despite Wales crossing once late on through Kerin Lake it was too little too late as home tries by Maria Diletta Veronese and Cioffi Maria Grazia had already done the damage.

A strong drive from the Welsh pack early-on disrupted an Italian scrum and Bath full-back Amiee Young kicked the visitors ahead after four minutes.

But Italy responded straight away, Veronese crossing for the games opening try after finding space on the outside of the scrum.

Veronica Schiavon couldn't add the extras with the conversion but Italy took an early 5-3 lead.

With the ball in hand Wales looked extremely dangerous and under Elinor Snowsill's instruction at fly-half Wales were knocking at the Italian's door.

Young had an opportunity to put Wales back into the lead after Italy had strayed offside but her penalty attempt drifted to the left had side of the sticks.

And despite constant Wales pressure it was Italy who scored again, Grazia touching down just before the break, Schiavon converting for a 12-3 half-time lead.

Wales came out fighting after the break but Young missed the chance to reduce the deficit, her third penalty attempt drifting wide.

But two minutes later Wales got the reward for all their attacking efforts, Neath wing Lake touching down in the corner.

It was then Wales turn to go on the defensive and they held out the Italian onslaught for ten minutes but could not get the final score they craved.