Sportscotland rugbyengland rugbywales rugby

Wales Vs Italy: 5 Major Six Nations Upsets (VIDEO)

WATCH: 5 Major Six Nations Upsets (VIDEO)
Edward Tew
|
Open Image Modal
England players trudge off after their 2006 Calcutta Cup defeat to Scotland
Mike Hewitt via Getty Images

The opening match of the 2014 Six Nations sees Wales - the winners of the past two tournaments – face traditional wooden spooner recipients Italy in Cardiff. While many will see this game something of a walkover, the Red Dragons would be wise to guard against complacency.

Italy are not the soft-centred pushovers they once were when they first made the Five Nations into six in 2000. Last year they finished fourth, above both Ireland and France and, on more than one occasion, the Italians have surprised teams who have not taken them seriously enough.

Just in case Warren Gatland has underestimated the threat of the Azzurri, here are five of the biggest upsets in Six Nations history to remind him of what can happen...

The 5 Biggest Six Nation Upsets
2006 - Scotland 20-16 France (01 of04)
Open Image Modal
France were the overwhelming favourites going in to this match but the resilient Scots proved to be more than a match for their mercurial opponents and provided the shock of the tournament. Two tries by Sean Lamont and typically reliable kicking from Chris Paterson sealed the win.
2006 - Scotland 18-12 England (02 of04)
Open Image Modal
Considering the Scots had just beaten France, this result perhaps shouldn't have come as a big surprise. But England were still the World Champions and desperate for that elusive Grand Slam. It was a tight match in wild conditions and that man Chris Paterson again kicked Scotland to victory, scoring all 18 points. (credit:Getty Images)
2011 - Italy 22-21 France(03 of04)
Open Image Modal
The biggest shock in Six Nations history, the Italians had never beaten the French in the tournament before. Les Blues were the defending Grand Slam champions and Italy had conceded eight tries against England earlier in the competition. France led until the 74th minute when Mirco Bergamasco converted his 5th penalty of the afternoon to give the Azzurri an historic win in Rome. (credit:WikiMedia:)
2013 - Italy 23-18 France(04 of04)
Open Image Modal
Italy produced a stunning performance in their opening game last year and consigned the 2011 World Cup runners-up to their second consecutive defeat on Italian soil. After the game Toulon forward Martin Castrogiovanni said Italy have "a chance against any team." Wales should beware. (credit:AP)
Suggest a correction
|
Submit a tip