Mallett rues lack of finishers

Viva Castro: The Italians celebrate their try in Paris

Italy coach Nick Mallett coach was in philosophical mood following his side's 25-13 loss to France in Paris, but he was happy with what was an improved performance from the Azzurri.

Indeed, Mallett's men were a different rabble from the team that lost 47-8 to Wales a fortnight ago.

Their defence was a lot more solid but they still lack a cutting edge in the backs, a problem that has plagued Italy sides down the years.

Mallett saw prop Martin Castrogiovanni score his team's only try and Andrea Marcato kick eight points, but the South African cast a covetous eye at his victors.

"We are working with the material we have," he said.

"In some positions, we don't have the likes of [Aurélien] Rougerie or [Julien] Malzieu, or [Joe] Rokocoko.

"That's why we don't score tries. If we did, we would. The players I have are giving the best they can.

"We had a few problems but we created three or four good chances.

"We enjoyed an excellent end to the game and I am happy with how we played. Individual errors cost us today."

With Italy having played Wales and France away in their last two games, Mallett is in a good position to judge the two sides' relative merits ahead of next weekend's title decider.

Les Bleus kept the tournament hopes alive with the victory but will need to see off unbeaten Wales by at least 20 points to claim their third Six Nations crown in succession.

"Obviously, with Wales at home, they are going to start as favourites," he said.

"But I think it's going to be a great game."