Italy must be at best to beat Scotland, says Mazzucato

ITALY winger Nicola Mazzucato says his side must be at their best if they are to beat Scotland in their next RBS 6 Nations match.

The Azzurri were convincingly beaten in their opening two matches in the tournament, by England and France, and Mazzucato knows his side must prevail over the Scots, who have also lost their opening two matches against Wales and England, if they are to retain hopes of finishing as wooden spoonists.

“The game against the Scots is our must-win game,” he told PA International.

“Playing at the Stadio Flaminio will help us, but we must treat the Scots with respect, even if everyone says they are young and inexperienced.

“The Six Nations really starts here for us, and we are ready to dance.”

The winger accepted the Italian attack has not yet fired on all cylinders but said their defending, against two of the best sides in the world, had been impressive.