Italy coach Nick Mallett is in a jovial mood ahead of his team's Six Nations clash against Wales at Stadio Flaminio even though the Italians have won just two of their previous 15 encounters against the Welsh.
With St David's Day approaching, a new breed of daffodil seems to have left Wales's shores and blossomed in Rome. The big question is, will the Welsh rugby team bloom in the spring-like conditions?
In a breathtaking start, Wales hit back after conceding an early try to go 15-8 ahead thanks to Sam Warburton's first international try. The flanker is a beneficiary of lovely play between Shane Williams and Lee Byrne.
Wales full-back Lee Byrne has, at times, looked back to his best and he thinks he is rewarded with a try, but Shane Williams's pass is rightly deemed forward and the full-back's touchdown is in vain.
Stephen Jones is fearless in the tackle, but it's with the boot he does the most damage, kicking two penalties to put his country 21-11 ahead before the break.
Italy captain Sergio Parisse is once again in inspirational form and he shows tremendous strength to brush aside Stephen Jones and barge over for a try, which takes the score to 21-16 to Wales.
But Italy winger Mirco Bergamasco hasn't quite got his kicking boots on and his penalty and conversion misses will prove crucial come the final whistle
Wales centre James Hook has a quiet second half, but his coolly-taken drop goal crucially puts Wales 24-16 ahead with seven minutes remaining
The travelling supporters breathe a sigh of relief as Wales cling on for a 24-16 victory against an Italian team which will rue silly errors made at crucial moments
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