Parisse warns Italy must tighten up for Irish clash

ITALY captain Sergio Parisse saw his side run in nine tries in yesterday’s win against Russia in Nelson — but has warned them that they must improve defensively.

The Azzurri were never threatened after securing a try bonus point in just 22 minutes as they went on to record their highest score in a World Cup match.

Italy, who led 38-7 at the break, registered scores through Sergio Parisse, Giulio Toniolatti (2), Tommaso Benvenuti (2), Edoardo Gori, Luke McLean, Alessandro Zanni and a penalty try, with fly-half Riccardo Bocchino, who limped off injured late on, adding four conversions.