Rome: Italy captain Sergio Parisse has warned against “surprise plays” and Ireland’s intention to “do damage” when they clash in a potential Six Nations bruiser in Rome today.
A week after succumbing 33-7 to Wales, Italy host Joe Schmidt’s men hoping a more disciplined performance at the Stadio Olimpico keeps them in contention throughout the second half.
But facing the 2015 champions less than a week after a 27-22 upset to Scotland dented Ireland’s victory plans for the tournament, says Parisse, is not ideal.
“They’re coming off a defeat they probably haven’t digested yet,” Parisse told media as he ran the rule over today’s opponents yesterday.
Parisse also believes Ireland have the game skills to adapt to Italy’s traditionally defensive game. “Compared to the other teams in the Six Nations, Ireland are able to adapt their game depending on which team they are playing. They’re also adept at scoring tries off the scrum and the line-out,” he added.
Despite an historic 20-18 victory over South Africa last November, Italy’s hopes of following suit last week were undone by a disastrous second half.
Having led 7-3 at half-time, the hosts gifted a rash of penalties to Wales who, after prop Andrea Lovotti was sent to the sinbin on the hour, then ran in three late tries to seal the win.
O’Shea made 35 appearances as a full-back for Ireland but as he prepares to face his country for the first time as an opponent, the former Harlequins handler has left no stone unturned.
“After last week’s disappointment, the coach reiterated to us this morning, in no uncertain terms, how important this game is,” added Parisse. “It’s a crucial game for us but it’s going to be more complicated than last week, because we can’t make errors like we did, especially in the second half.”