Ireland maintain perfect start with win

Luke Fitzgerald crossed twice with Tommy Bowe, David Wallace and Brian O'Driscoll also touching down against a limited Azzurri who ran out of ideas after a rousing opening 35 minutes.

Luke McLean contributed all Italy's points with three penalties and for all their possession and spirit, Nick Mallett's team never threatened the visitors' line.

Italy were fired-up by the heavy criticism that greeted their 36-11 defeat by England last weekend but their passion could only take them so far.

Ireland crushed their resistance by cranking up the pressure at key moments, leading to scores for Fitzgerald and Wallace either side of the interval that swept them out of sight.

Ireland will be disappointed by their failure to put the Azzurri to the sword in the second half which they dominated, a large error count preventing them from cutting loose.

Late tries from Fitzgerald and O'Driscoll, plundered when Italy's heads had dropped, gave the score a lopsided look that was harsh on the home team.

With Ireland hamstrung by their mistakes few players pushed their Lions claims, although Jamie Heaslip, Fitzgerald, Paul O'Connell and the free-running Bowe will feel better.

A clearer picture will emerge after Ireland's next assignment - England at Croke Park in a fortnight - when their Six Nations title aspirations are sure to be tested more fully.

Victory over France on the opening day has put them in a strong position that has been further improved by dispatching a smarting Italy.