Mallett praises Azzurri efforts

ITALY coach Nick Mallett insists he is happy with the performances of his players in the RBS 6 Nations despite them having yet to win a game.

The Azzurri face Scotland at home in the last game of the 2008 tournament and need to win by at least five points to avoid taking the wooden spoon. But although the Italians have yet to taste victory this year, they pushed England, Ireland and France all the way and gave Mallett reason to be “very proud”.

Mallett also branded number eight Sergio Parisse as the best player in his position in the competition.