Scotland has taken one step closer to entering the final round of the Guinness Six Nations with a shot at the title and is leading Italy 22-16 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

Italy got out to a dream start, as Paolo Garbisi slotted an easy penalty inside the opening three minutes.

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As if testing the rugby gods' patience, Garbisi saw the ball fall off the tee as he was lining up the shot at goal in a nearly identical to his much-publicized mishap against France a fortnight ago.

From here, Scotland launched a sustained attack, which resulted in two quick tries. Prop Zander Fagerson barged over in the seventh minute, and winger Kyle Steyn crossed five minutes later.

Now firmly on the back foot, Italy showed the resilience that earned it the draw against France, striking through a sublimely placed chip kick that was claimed by center Ignacio Brex.

Now back within a score, Italy launched a few promising attacks but was unable to crack the Scottish defense.

Regaining the ascendancy, Scotland went Route 1 once again, as prop Pierre Schoeman went over for his team’s third score of the half.

Garbisi closed the half as he began it, with a penalty to bring his side back into contention heading into the break at 22-16. 

Italy had one final crack to take the lead before the break, as fullback Ange Capuozzo was held up over the line by Duhan van der Merwe for what was a crucial intervention.

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