Italy coach John Kirwan

The Azzurri were made to work hard against the typically robust Islanders, but ultimately proved too strong.

"I think defensively we were very sound," said Kirwan. "There's a few things we have to tidy up before out next game with Canada."

Italian captain Alessandro Troncon added: "Last time we lost to Tonga at the 1999 World Cup, so this is our time.

Tonga rue injuries

"We won a very difficult match because for it was important for each team to win to continue in the World Cup.

"We played with a lot of vigour and discipline tonight, we scored the try when we had to score.

"We had a good defence, maybe two mistakes, but we've got to be happy with that effort."