Six Nations: How Wales & Italy won

1. Result: France 13-20 Wales
2. Biggar try for Wales and Halfpenny kicks 15 points
3. Wales claim fourth straight win over France
4. Result: Scotland 19-22 Italy
5. Last-minute penalty try gives Italy victory
6. Scotland still without a win in 2015 Six Nations

Done and dusted for now, but this Ireland v England is a game that deserves a day all of its own.

The tournament's two unbeaten teams go head to head in Dublin tomorrow in a seismic meeting.

Kick-off is 15:00 GMT and I'm presuming I'll see you there. Yes? Good. Agreed.

Sleep well.

BBC Red Button

BBC Red Button

EPA

Wales full-back Leigh Halfpenny on the Forum: "We knew how important it was to come here and to win to keep us in the competition.

"We're absolutely delighted with the win, we knew how tough the challenge would be. The boys dug deep, especially in the last few minutes when there was a scrum five metres out from the line.

"The character to keep them out was what we knew we needed to bring to get a win here today.

"It was good to see the Toulon boys after the final whistle and I'll be looking to catch up with them after the game."

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Richard Barnes: Wales might not play as we want them too, but growing up I'd never think we'd be beating France on such a regular basis!

John Ballard: This has to be about the worst French side in living memory. Gone is the Gallic flair.

Catherine Kavanagh: I want the changing room camera to remain on Philippe Saint-Andre so we can watch the French throttle him! That's a very unhappy team.

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Martyn Williams

Former Wales captain on BBC Red Button

"Once Wales get confident they are a really dangerous side. I was very concerned with our forward pack and I thought we couldn't match the French physically. But we did just that. Wales were very disciplined as well, didn't give away too many penalties and nullified France. With their newfound confidence they could go a long way."

BBC Red Button

Wales captain Sam Warburton on the Forum: "France were absolutely massive, and they brought on the cavalry for the last 20 or 30 minutes. But as forwards we've felt we've underperformed as a pack. We had some honest meetings after the England and Scotland games, and credit to our pack - it was a much-improved performance.

"France turn over southern hemisphere wins quite regularly, but we've now beaten them four times in a row. The hard work paid off, and that is satisfying."

BBC Red Button

Getty Images

Wales captain Sam Warburton, who often steers clear of the drink, is asked on the Forum whether he will enjoy a cold beer this evening.

"Well, I've got a knock on my knee and it's swollen up," he says. "The rule is, if you have a knock then strictly no alcohol. Maybe a kilo of fruit and nut instead!"

BBC Red Button

Reuters

Wales try scorer Dan Biggar on the Forum: "France are a superb side, and when they get the maul going and their game doing they are hard to stop. We worked hard all week and our team deserve all the credit in the world. That result puts us right back in the mix and the changing room is a happy place to be. It was a tough, physical game and there are a few sore bodies now.

"I just about had the pace for my try - another couple of metres away and I would have been struggling! The forwards deserve the credit really - I just finished it off.

"If Ireland can win tomorrow, and then with Ireland still to come to the Millennium Stadium, the title really could be on."

Martyn Williams

Former Wales captain on BBC One

"Leigh Halfpenny at the back keeps chipping away and he does a cracking job as ever with the boot. Wales were very disciplined today and they're in a really good place and with confidence, they can win a lot of games playing like that."

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Chris Wenham: Awesome game, Wales! Beautifully done. A well-deserved win. Bring on Ireland!

Steve the Chemist: The Welsh forwards and overall defence were massive, but it will not win the World Cup. England have the full package.

Joe Davies: Well done Wales. Great win. Four on the trot over the French.

Reuters

Is that a BBC Radio Wales-branded flag? I didn't know we did those...

Reuters

The France dressing room is a pretty desolate place. Serge Blanco does the rounds, tapping a few shoulders and whispering some consoling words before Philippe Saint-Andre takes centre stage and starts the post mortem.

The Six Nations is a poorer place with this France side shorn of invention and style...

Wales head coach Warren Gatland: "We have a good record against France I though the forwards were sensational. We scrummaged well, the line-out was good and I thought we deserved to win.

"The next game is massive against Ireland at home and hopefully we will play Italy on the final day with the championship alive."

Reuters

You only need to see Leigh Halfpenny's reunion with girlfriend Jess in the stands to realise what that win means for Wales.

The pair of them look to be in tears. There has been a lot of pressure. If Wales had lost it would have been doom and gloom, now the win means the talk is all about an unlikely Six Nations title.

The result was everything.

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Adam Rees: Great win by Wales. Battle of attrition, big physical effort. Well done!

James Hall: Love, love, love beating the French! Excellent performance from Wales.

Jonathan Flowers: That'll do nicely. Well earned boys!

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Wales wing George North: "We had a tough few weeks and against a French side in Paris it's always difficult. But, the boys were tight, we stayed together and brought home a strong performance today. To come out here and get a win is great for our championship hopes."

Reuters

George North is just talking pitchside and he sounds bullish about Wales' chances of turning this Six Nations campaign round to a glorious conclusion.

He recalls 2013 when Wales lost their opener at home to Ireland and ended as champions after a 30-3 win over England

Full quotes to come.

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

Reuters

"A fantastic win for Wales. The atmosphere here was electric from start to finish. France, in fairness, played some electric rugby. But the Welsh defence stood firm and it was that defence who won the day.

"There is still time for Wales to win this Six Nations, and they will be pleased. They still have an opportunity of winning the championship, and of course looking ahead the World Cup."

Full-time

BBC Sport

It doesn't even get that far.

The scrum disintegrates and the referee decides not to resuscitate the action.

Jeers from all around the Stade de France for the home team.

A France knock-on. Wales with the scrum. A clean hook, a boot into touch and this will be done.

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"It's been an incredibly brave defensive effort from Wales in this second half, and it looks as if all that effort, patience and experience is going to pay."

What a tackle!

Jamie Roberts smashes into Brice Dulin bringing France's attack to a shuddering halt. The ball is in French hands, but back up on halfway.

France with momentum, but Wales stem it just in time. The maul breaks up with still five metres to go to the Welsh line.

Penalty France!

No time to go for goal. Camille Lopez plays it safe and kicks to the Wales 22m line rather than flirting with the corner and dead-ball doom.

Line-out to come...

Getty Images

Scrum reset with the clock still ticking. The seconds are slipping away and Wales are in no rush to get the game restarted.

This game is getting away from France.

The crowd are grumbling as Samson Lee takes a knee and calls for a little medical attention.

The home side are running out of momentum.

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"Wales have a kicker of such quality in Halfpenny. They almost feel that if they can exert any sort of pressure they're likely to gain a penalty, and then it'll be three points."

Penalty

Those Welsh forwards have come together and trump their French counterparts at scrum-time.

Liam Williams is in off the wing to slap backsides and shout encouragement because this is a very kickable spot and his side have a very good kicker.

Leigh Halfpenny strolls up and is as laser-guided as ever.

On come the Welsh reinforcements in the pack.

Richard Hibbard, Bradley Davies and Justin Tipuric are into the fray...

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"This is down to good possession, recycling and then putting width on the ball. Brice Dulin goes low and he goes early to the line for a very good try."

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"Wave after wave of France attacks, and credit Wales for their defence but you have top run out of numbers eventually when you're having to commit so many men to the tackle. Every point matters now, and this match is within a France score. The French have their tails up and will look to keep on pressing."

Try

The Wales defence is sucked in as the France forwards gather steam and momentum and when they throw the ball wide the hosts' back are queueing up.

Brice Dulin finishes it off, staying low to get under Dan Lydiate's shoulder charge and in at the corner.

Camille Lopez sends an ugly scuffer of a kick scraping over to close the gap to four.

France are pouring on the pressure. Thierry Dusautoir is up to within five metres...

Ali Williams

Former New Zealand lock on BBC One

"Leigh Halfpenny puts so much pressure on himself that he almost makes it twice as hard. But he does it every time with the boot, he's just fantastic."

Penalty

That is a monster of a kick. Leigh Halfpenny channels his inner Neil Jenkins and lands from well out and wide.

Eleven points is a heck of a gap to bridge back.

Ali Williams

Former New Zealand lock on BBC One

"I've noticed the difference for France since Morgan Parra's come off. They're certainly not as settled."

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Dan Eccles: Great try!

Rhodri Lewis: Lydiate with a worldy!

Isaac Arinaitwe: You feel the big French boys are running out of steam. That Biggar try will hurt.

France look like they might be disintegrating. A sentence that has been written many times before.

Aimless kicking is followed by a needless concession of a penalty by replacement Vincent Debaty.

Leigh Halfpenny is going to take it on from 40m and from a tight angle.

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"Great dummy by Webb, who is fantastic around the fringes, and Lydiate's ball to Biggar was fantastic, sending the defenders one way. No problem at all with the try, after Wales have been under the cosh."

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"What a beautiful little pass by Dan Lydiate, beautifully pass that creates the try. Biggar knew he didn't have the legs and he went down early to get across the line."

Try

EPA

More nifty moves and sleight of hand than Fagin's gang.

Rhys Webb weasels through a gaps around the fringes around the 22-metre line, offloads to Dan Lydiate and the flanker deftly slips the ball on to Dan Biggar.

The fly-half pins his ears back and just, just, makes it into the corner as Brice Dulin covers across and trys to turn him turtle.

Leigh Halfpenny, from the touchline, slips attempting to land a very tricky conversion.

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"If Wales go six points clear will it change the mindset of the French? Will they throw the ball about a bit more? They're still dominating the possession, but not doing much with it."

Wales build nicely, forwards trundling forward round the edges and eating up turf and territory.

Dan Biggar clocks the slow ball, drops back into the pocket but his drop-goal attempt, bounces the wrong way off the upright.

Ali Williams

Former New Zealand lock on BBC One

"The line-outs have been very even. Both teams have been very secure and there's not been much in way of an opportunity for a turnover."

Replacement

A botched restart from Camille Lopez fails to make the 10 metres required and we are going to restart with a Wales scrum on halfway.

France have brought on the heavy squad by the way. Two-thirds of a new front row with Benjamin Kayser and Uini Atonio on. Atonio is 24 stone, the biggest man to ever play Six Nations rugby.

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Nigel Reed in Benfleet, Essex: Considering the importance of the Six Nations, why don't the kickers bring their own "tees" that they practice with at home, rather than moaning about the ones supplied at the match?

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"That's one edge that Wales do have is Leigh Halfpenny. If the game is tight in the opposition half, you've got a chance with Leigh Halfpenny in your side."

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Charlie Smith: The French are playing some breathtaking rugby suddenly. Hold on tight...

Steve Jones: From a Welsh perspective, I have a bad feeling about this second half.

Ryan M: Someone give our boys a shout and tell them the second half has started!

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Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"France are playing with confidence. They have come out after half-time and have picked up their pace and tempo. And now they have made changes and brought the cavalry on up front..."

Penalty

George North soars above Brice Dulin to claim Dan Biggar's snowy up and under.

France infringe as they flood back and Leigh Halfpenny's metronomic kicking doesn't skip a beat.

Ali Williams

Former New Zealand lock on BBC One

Reuters

"France's direct running from their second five and Bastareaud is key here, then their second momentum is coming from the forwards. They've really come out with some intent since half-time."

Penalty

The pressure pays and Jaco Peyper's arm pops up to indicate a France penalty. This is right in front and only 20m out.

I think that, even in his current iffy form, Camille Lopez could kick it in a pair of over-sized slippers.

He does the business and the scores are level.

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"They've got their tales up now the French forwards, they're all putting their hands up wanting to carry."

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"France have shown great tempo and constant forward play in their movement. The Wales defence has been desperate at times."

France have upped the tempo since the break. Camille Lopez's cross-field kick, aimed at Brice Dulin, almost catches George North out of position.

The hosts are asking all the questions and are parked up in the dangerzone, just outside the Wales 22m line.

France suddenly race clear with Wesley Fofana streaking clear with Sofiane Guitoune in support. Liam Williams just about gets back to pull the France centre to the floor.

France recycle but Mathieu Bastareaud had the benefit of a blocking runner as he crashed up the middle and referee Jaco Peyper, who has been excellent so far, spotted it.

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"That's three French kicking attempts missed now. They were difficult, but you can be sure Leigh Halfpenny would have swatted over the bulk of them. And that's the difference."

Missed penalty

Different kicker, same result. Morgan Parra's effort drifts just wide.

Ali Williams

Former New Zealand lock on BBC One

"Hard to admit an Australian being right, but I think Drew Mitchell picked this one with Morgan Parra taking over the kicking for France."

Wales infringe in their hastiness to try and put the restart error right.

Penalty on the Wales 10-metre line and, after a little chat with Thierry Dusautoir, Morgan Parra is going to take over kicking duties from Camille Lopez and take it on...

Kick-off

Here we go. Another 40 minutes of bruising action get underway as Camille Lopez dinks the restart just over the 10-metre and his chasers regain possession...

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

Getty Images

"Eddy Ben Arous has done very well for France. A couple of times he's got stuck in there with some crucial turnovers."

Someone needs to tell the Stade de France disc-jockey that less is more.

They have so far crammed Ram Jam's Black Betty, The Rembrandts' I'll Be There For You, and Nirvana's Smells Like Teen Spirit into a horrible soundclash of a medley.

Drew Mitchell

Toulon and Australia wing on BBC One

"Wales's kick-chase has been really impressive so far. They're getting a really strong red line going forward. There's not the intensity to contest at the moment from France, which is why Wales are getting the ball back so much even when they kick it out of hand."

Martyn Williams

Former Wales captain on BBC One

"The first 35 minutes were very much a stalemate and an arm wrestle, but the last five minutes have opened things up a bit more. It's still a stalemate and France are getting plenty of ball, but not doing that much with it."

Thomas Castaignede

Former France international on BBC One

"It's like Barcelona-style stats so far. France have had all of the ball and all of the territory, but it's not reflected on the scoreboard. We need to get more ball in hand to create the opportunities."

Wales have been pounding on the door, but so far the French defence has stood strong.

Here are your half-time stats:

France-Wales

Tackles made: 77-22

Tackles missed: 6-3

Turnovers won: 5-2

Penalties conceded: 3-8

Carries: 25-71

Offloads: 6-3

Metres made: 131-189

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Introvert Dave: Wales are using the ball well.

Si Morgan: A different France tonight - more flair, throwing the ball around, looking a lot more like the French teams of old!

Neil Wallington: It's good to see Parra back on the pitch. He gives France more options.

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Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"France will be disappointed that they are not going into half-time ahead."

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"France have dominated the possession and territory, but they haven't really created a try-scoring opportunity. The forward pass is the one time they've opened up the Wales defence."

Half-time

BBC Sport

Missed penalty

Camille Lopez takes on a penalty from a decent distance and a testy angle, but that is nowhere near.

Well wide and the French fly-half's miss is the final piece of action in the half.

France strip the ball from Welsh hands, Mathieu Bastareaud slips the offload out of the sidedoor to Sofiane Guitoune, but now Liam Williams gets back to steal possession back.

France nick the ball back as Rhys Webb's little dart leads only up a cul de sac.

A breathless passage of play.

Brice Dulin loses the ball as he tries to run a kick back. Now there is space for Wales.

George North on the charge. Hauled down just short and Wales are within 10m as the half ticks down.

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"The game has come to life and now there's a fantastic atmosphere inside this stadium. And that's all because this is a France side that is trying to play rugby with a spark and creativity. That's just like the France of old."

Ali Williams

Former New Zealand lock on BBC One

"France are really trying to speed this game up. They feel they might just have the upper hand on Wales at the moment, but they're just lacking that intensity in what they're trying to execute."

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"That was a very early call by the referee. Very early call. It was absolutely spot on. It was a great ball though and it just spotted that Liam Williams was defending quite tight with his shoulder pointing in-field."

Disallowed try

Tricolours fluttering in all corners, Yoann Huget jubilant in the corner, but, just as every Welsh voice shouted, the final pass to the France wing was forward.

That was a warning for Wales though. Liam Williams did not look comfortable isolated against Huget.

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"It's great defensive work by the French, but it's slowing the game down so that you can't attack."

Getty Images

There is not going to be a wide spread of points between these two sides come 80 minutes.

Tight and cagey stuff.

Dafydd Pritchard, BBC Wales Sport at Stade de France: "Mathieu Bastareaud's introduction was popular with the French fans, who are raising the decibel levels at Stade de France as Les Bleus look to play a more expansive game.

"Every time full-back Brice Dulin collects the ball, there is a roar of expectation that the Racing Metro man should run rather kick.

"Wales are, however, doing a decent job of keeping the locals quiet with their spells of possession, even if they haven't led to any clear scoring chances yet."

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Alex Butler: This morning we left Petersfield, Hampshire for a race to Paris. Two by train, two by car. Here we are now:

ButlerAlexander

The game's behind you, lads...

Thomas Castaignede

Former France international on BBC One

"France tend to dominate the scrum, but Dusatoir and Le Roux needs to come and help Camille Lopez on the openside."

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"Wales have hung onto the ball well in recent times. They have become a difficult side to beat because they're always amassing points."

Penalty

George North gets his first canter, barging into the brave Brice Dulin inside the France 22m line.

A French hand has sneaked over the wrong side, trying to snatch some contraband ball and the referee punishes it with a penalty.

Leigh Halfpenny steps up and splits the sticks.

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"It's a very unlucky bounce there for Brice Dulin. He had it covered, was in a very good position to get a kick away, but it's led to a good attacking position and advantage for Wales."

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Ollie: Decent game so far...

Keri Gibson: Come on Wales. Settle and keep discipline.

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Oh, you tease.

A bibbly-bobbler of a grubber kick from Jonathan Davies wrong-foots France full-back Brice Dulin and Liam Williams rushes in to snatch possession.

Blue shirts snuff out the opening, but there has been a knock-on by Dulin and there will be a scrum with a red put-in.

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Nick in London: The first collision between Jamie Roberts and Mathieu Bastareaud might finally solve the 'unstoppable force vs immovable object' conundrum.

Missed penalty

Not enough legs, just a shade off target. Close, but no cigar for Camille Lopez.

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"It's nice to see Morgan Parra back for France. His presence adds to their kicking game."

Plenty of time being taken over the setting of the scrums. As ever.

A nice little step from Camille Lopez around Rhys Webb before he wallops a kick upfield.

Then a quick tap-and-go from Morgan Parra earns France another 10 metres as Wales can't resist tugging him down before they have fully retreated.

A bit more zip and zest about this France 9-10 combo and Lopez is going to have a pop for goal from up around halfway...

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"Wales need to take their time. It's all about playing slowly and surely. Even if you don't break through you'll end up winning a penalty, and then you can build all over again."

Replacement

Did you feel that tremor?

Mathieu Bastareaud is on. Toulouse's Remy Lamarat makes way.

Penalty

Getty Images

Jonathan Davies strays offside in the centres.

Basic discipline and Camille Lopez is never going to miss the penalty from front and centre.

Even stevens.

It looks like Philippe Saint-Andre is moving already to stem the yards being lost to Jamie Roberts.

Mathieu Bastareaud is being readied on the sidelines.

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

Getty Images

"Good yardage by Jamie Roberts with ball in hand just makes it so much easier for Dan Biggar to make a clearage kick."

France are penning Wales back into their defensive third and it is too the liking of a band in the crowd.

Some big brassy tunes coming ringing down from the stands.

France bosh their way up to the Wales 22m line.

Here is the Hail Mary crossfield kick from Camille Lopez, high and hanging for Yoann Huget.

The France winger gets up above Liam Williams to tap the ball down and back towards Brice Dulin, but Leigh Halfpenny intercepts to cut out the danger.

Head down and charge. Jamie Roberts, without Mathieu Bastareaud opposite him in midfield, is the main option for the Welsh backline.

It is not subtle, but it is effective. He is making yardage every time.

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"Playing in atmosphere like this, if you are Wales you just want to quieten the crowd. Don't give them anything to cheer, keep the scoreboard ticking on, and you'll silence most inside this stadium.

"But France are better than they were - the players know what their jobs are and they are going to try and ensure they do them."

Penalty

Getty Images

Leigh Halfpenny blocks out the boos from the stands and strokes over from a good 35m out.

A decent confidence-builder that and first blood on the scoreboard.

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

Reuters

"I don't know what it is with the French, but they're very passive. It's allowing Wales to get over the gain line very easily."

Wales playing it tight and tidy, rumbling round the fringes for 11 successive fringes and making it over the gain line on each.

France get impatient and stray the wrong side at the breakdown. This is kickable for Leigh Halfpenny. Most of them are for him.

If Shaun Edwards didn't like England's decoy runners, he is going to hate that from Wesley Fofana. The France centre blocks off Jamie Roberts with a very obvious obstruction.

The referee has spotted it. There would be some questions if he hadn't. Penalty to Wales and Dan Biggar clears upfield.

Former Wales scrum-half Robert Jones

BBC Radio 5 live

"The aerial battle is somewhere that Wales have dominated in this championship so far, but I think this evening France will also be looking to compete in that department.

"The scrum will also be a key area today - for Wales, their set-pieces haven't been great in their first two games."

First scrum of the match up on halfway and is that a hint of Walsh superiority?

Rhys Webb gets the ball away and Liam Williams hangs on despite a dumper-truck of a tackle from Yoann Huget.

But France force the turnover as the Wales forwards fail to get there in enough numbers.

Camille Lopez takes us up to the Wales 22m line.

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EPA

Rob James: Decent atmosphere in Paris. Time to ditch the tenors - acoustic anthems the way forward.

Charles Worthington: Goosebumps, listening to the French national anthem.

Conor Fletcher: What a beautiful sound. Unbelievable anthems.

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Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

Getty Images

"It's going to be an intense, physical battle. The gain line is going to be key for both sides."

Kick-off

Dan Biggar to get us going and the Wales fly-half boots high and hanging over the France 10-metre line. The hosts forwards gobble it up under pressure from the chasing red shirts.

Leigh Halfpenny, who plays his club rugby on this side of the Channel, is moved to the point of tears by the Welsh anthem.

France respond with a rendition of La Marsaillaise led by a group of military men wearing some jaunty tricorn hats.

Thierry Dusautoir finally leads his boys out to line up alongside Wales backstage.

He and Sam Warburton then trudge out into a maelstrom of noise with red, white and blue fluttering in all corners.

Dafydd Pritchard, BBC Wales Sport at Stade de France: "The tricolore flags are out in force at a vibrant, vociferous Stade de France with kick-off less than 10 minutes away.

"Wales assistant coach Rob Howley spoke earlier this week about the importance of silencing the Parisian crowd.

"If this rowdy pre-match atmosphere is anything to go by, that will be quite some task for Wales."

Team news

PA

As France keep Wales waiting in the tunnel, time for a run-down of the full cast list.

France: B Dulin, Y Huget, R Lamerat, W Fofana, S Guitoune, C Lopez, M Parra; E Ben Arous, G Guirado, R Slimani, R Taofifenua, Y Maestri, T Dusautoir, B Le Roux, D Chouly

Replacements: B Kayser, U Atonio, V Debaty, J Suta, L Goujon, S Tillous-Borde, R Tales, M Bastareaud

Wales: L Halfpenny, G North, J Davies, J Roberts, L Williams, D Biggar, R Webb; G Jenkins, S Baldwin, S Lee, L Charteris, A Wyn Jones, D Lydiate, S Warburton (captain), T Faletau

Replacements: R Hibbard, P James, A Jarvis, B Davies, J Tipuric, M Phillips, R Priestland, S Williams

Martyn Williams

Former Wales captain on BBC One

"Jamie Roberts is integral to this Wales team. He leads the defensive line, similar to Mathieu Bastareaud for France, he is such an intense presence.

Drew Mitchell

Toulon and Australia wing on BBC One

"George North's talents are immense. The most imposing thing is his presence on the wing. His finishing for such a big guy is right up there with the best in world rugby. I'd love to see him come off the wing a bit more."

Getty Images

Wales head coach Warren Gatland speaking to BBC Sport: "This match is important for both teams to stay in this competition. We have prided ourselves in the past in being a team that improves over campaigns and we have been training well.

"Liam Williams has been setting things alight and it is a chance for George North to come back in. It is always good to keep the players on their toes and remind them that they have to earn it every week."

Wales began their Six Nations campaign with a deflating home defeat to England and their narrow win over Scotland last time out looks less impressive in the light of Italy's win today.

France have been as one-dimensional as a charcter from a Liam Neeson movie.

All physicality, not a sniff of their trademark guile and invention. A tryless win over Scotland in their opener was followed by bruising defeat to Ireland.

Time to switch our sights south to Paris.

Neither France or Wales are in full-blown crisis mode, but defeat for either today will turn up the volume on the grumbles and groans.

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Getty Images

Stephen Leatherdale: Really enjoyed that match. Good, attritional rugby.

Adam Martin: Terrible game! The referee didnt help, but the game lacked excitement and no real rugby was played. Backs are great but forwards? Not so much!

Dan Jenkins: Scotland have been building so well over last few months under Vern Cotter. I hope they don't crumble after that defeat...

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Chris Paterson

Former Scotland international on BBC One

Getty Images

"I think Scotland have to be more accurate. They were less direct in the second half. Scotland playing a wide attractive game with accuracy gives them the best chance to win. They go to Twickenham next and I think that's a great opportunity to implement that."

Reuters

Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw speaking to Jill Douglas: "We're obviously disappointed with the performance. Unfortunately in the end it's cost us our indiscipline, but it wasn't just that, it was the whole performance. There was way too much poor stuff in between the good things we did. We didn't get forward enough when we were ahead. We talked about our discipline all week and we gave away numerous stupid penalties and we let them chip away at out lead throughout."

Sir Ian McGeechan

Former Lions and Scotland coach on BBC One

"Italy I thought were very clever in the way they adjusted because of the way Scotland took advantage of them in the first half. They tightened up and were wise to where they were caught out."

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Mr Hyde: Yes yes yes! Well done Italy - fully deserved.

Eddie Pinion: What a finish to that game. I'm actually delighted Italy won.

Ross Brannigan: Almost glad Scotland lost. We did not deserve to win. Disappointed.

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Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"I am pleased for Italy. I felt they deserved that victory. They realised how they could win that game, and Scotland got sucked into a forward-orientated battle. They were no match for some of those Italian hulks.

"When Italy got their act together they were able to force Scotland, plus the referee George Clancy, to give them favour. They did enough to win the game, and that's what it's about.

"Whether Scotland had won that game or not, it wouldn't have taken away from what was a very, very disappointing Scottish performance."

A brilliant shot of Jacques Brunel, the Italy coach, up in his Perspex box in the stands, going absolutely barmy as that winning score was awarded.

It is a long, hard slog being Italy in the Six Nations. It is difficult to begrudge them a win as their players go on a lap of honour, celebrating with the travelling supporters.

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

Getty Images

"You can see the Italy players at the end there overwhelmed by the emotion. It's great to not be on the receiving end of something that comes down to a huge call right at the end."

Man of the match Luke McLean talking to Jill Douglas: "They've been a couple of tough losses in recent years, so it's great to come out on the right side of a result. A win is tough enough, but to win away is a great thing. We've got two matches at home from here on so we'll try to take this forward as much as we can."

Italy captain Sergio Parisse speaking to Jill Douglas: "It's fantastic for the team to win at the end. It's been very hard on the team in recent years as we lost from a last-minute drop goal in Rome last time out. The forwards did a tremendous job at the end there."

That was an ugly way to win for Italy, but it doesn't taste any less sweet for Sergio Parisse.

The Italy captain bellowed to the heavens as the penalty try was awarded.

Scotland looked like they were going to coast their way to victory early on, but Italy turned the match into a back-street brawl and ambushed the hosts.

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Getty Images

I don't think there was any doubt that the penalty try was going to happen. Scotland have just got themselves to blame. You've got to hand it to Italy, who played to their strengths in the scrum."

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"Italy have won this match in dramatic circumstances and it's a lesson learned for Scotland."

Full-time

BBC Sport

Penalty Try

Italy are surely going to win on the road in the Six Nations for only the second time ever.

Fraser Brown is pinged for dragging down. He is shown yellow.

Where now for Vern Cotter's brave new dawn?

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Freelance Lawrence: These scrums are an absolute joke. We've wasted about 10 minutes of the game. Embarrassing for all involved.

Jamie McDonald: C'mon Scotland!

Luke John Frost: Come on Italy!

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Sin-bin

Scotland down to 14 men for the rest of the match as Ben Toolis, just on, is shown yellow for dragging down a maul.

Italy have a line-out and 10 metres of territory to cross for victory.

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"Just a massive decision after a massive scrum. That was the game right there as Italy sensed they would get an opportunity."

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Why would Italy deliberately collapse the scrum in that situation, when they have been moving forward on the last two occasions? Very odd decision from George Clancy."

All hail the beard!

Geoff Cross, with his fuzz of facial hair, gets all the acclaim as Scotland win a penalty at the set-piece.

A brief bit of afters but then Peter Horne misses touch from the penalty.

This isn't done yet...

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"Just a massive moment for both sides in the context of all manner of things. It would be a massive win for both sides."

Another false start. Another reset. Only four minutes to go. Scotland will struggle to reply if they concede here...

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Why on earth have Scotland changed their prop and their scrum-half when there are minutes to go and you are defending your line from just five metres? I just do not understand it."

Italy get the shove on. The front row crumple nose-first into the turf.

Penalty Italy says ref George Clancy. Sergio Parisse orders another scrum...

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

"These are the big moments that you train for, that you hope you'll get the chance to take. My hands are getting sweaty."

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"You've got to say, Scotland have really only got themselves to blame for being in this situation. They have brought it upon themselves, with a real lack of urgency after an early salvo. Italy sense they could be on the verge of only their second victory at Murrayfield in the Six Nations."

Scotland replace Euan Murray and Grieg Laidlaw with Geoff Cross and Sam Hidalgo-Clyne. Changes at prop and scrum-half before this crucial setpiece....

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"It's over the line, which means the ball has been held up and that's lead to an attacking scrum. Had that move collapsed short, it would've been Scotland's put in instead. That's a big call there from George Clancy."

Scotland throw bodies under the wheels of the Italian tank of a maul and manage to keep the ball off the floor even though they are forced back over their own line.

Scrum five. Italy ball.

Italy kick into the corner. They are five metres out. Expect even the water-boy to join this rolling maul...

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

Reuters

"I'd be taking the options of going for touch and applying the pressure with a good rolling maul. I think Italy really need to look at their bench for some fresh legs."

But that is a shocker of a line-out throw by Scotland replacement Hamish Brown and Italy have a line-out throw of their own up on the Scotland 22m.

That is why the don't let second rows do much more than push and pop.

Joshua Furno finds himself in a bit of space out wide. The Scottish defence line is all over the shop, but his attempt to sling a mis-pass to Michele Visentin clears the winger by several feet and flies straight into touch.

Replacement

A change in the centres as Matt Scott comes on for Mark Bennett for Scotland.

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

Getty Images

"It's a simple kick for Laidlaw. They come away with the three points, but they wanted the seven. A couple of times during those phases, you felt they had the numerical advantage, but the Italy defence held firm."

Penalty

Scotland can't pick a way through the massed blue ranks and, as they spill forward, the referee calls it back for Italy's offside earlier in the phases.

It is a gimme of a kick for Greig Laidlaw and he slots perfectly.

Sixteen phases and Scotland have penalty advantage...

Sean Lamont hobbles through a tackle, taking Scotland to within 20m before the Italy cover bundles him to the floor.

Scotland bashing up around the Italy 22m line. Can they sniff the whitewash this time?

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Luke John Frost: Italy so need to improve their kicking game.

Matthew Hall: Italy would be dangerous to a number of teams if they had someone who could kick vaguely straight. Too many missed points.

Paul Stewart: I guess anybody capable of kicking a ball in Italy plays football not rugby.

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Still no points scored after more than 20 minutes of the second half...

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

"I'm not sure why the Italy back line are holding off, allowing more time on the ball. They need to keep pressing forward, keep putting in the tackles and pressurising the ball."

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"It was exactly the right thing to do, the right support line, but Sean Lamont couldn't just hold it up for long enough to move the pass backwards."

The crowd jeer but George Clancy has read that one right.

Stuart Hogg is trotting over the Italy line but only after taking an inside offload from Sean Lamont that has drifted a good couple of yards forward.

A slightly over-run support line by Hogg. If he had got that right it was probably seven points and maybe the beginning of the end for Italy.

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"The longer this game goes on, the more it descends into a slugfest between the forwards. There is nor nearly enough pace when in possession, and it's now just set piece to set piece, kicking and scrums. Let's not forget, the first 20 minutes were quite exciting. But these 40 minutes have been pretty boring, I have to say..."

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"Discipline is key in games like this. Scotland needlessly giving away a penalty there for offside and you just need to keep your concentration to get ahead."

Boomf!

Alex Dunbar's ribs are singing like a tuning fork after Simone Favaro thumps into a whiplasher of a tackle in midfield.

This match hasn't been a beauty but that is straight to the highlights reel. Italy regain possession to relieve the pressure.

Trying to understand what is going on at the scrum is like accidently wandering into an advanced Mandarin lesson.

Utterly baffling, but this time the cookie crumbles Scotland's way with George Clancy awarding the penalty their way.

Not kickable, but a decent nudge up to the Italy 22m.

Man, ball and everything in between. A lovely, all-enveloping tackle from Tommy Seymour stops his man in his tracks and prevents Italy making use of an overlap outside him.

Put it in the textbook.

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Matthew Hall: Changing the scrum laws will never happen because of the game itself and its traditions. Something's got to change, though.

James Humberstone: The Italian forwards are showing their intent this second half. Very tight and impressive unit.

Simon Richardson: Italy have had some poor 10s since the awesome Dominguez, but Haimona must be the worst. Where on earth did they find him?

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Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Scotland really have to pick themselves up here. This is by far their poorest performance in this year's Six Nations."

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"This is going to be tight all the way for the remainder. Either side can grab this, but you don't want them to go back into their shells and be nervous."

Missed penalty

Getty Images

Italy tighthead Matias Aguero turns the screw at the scrum, forcing the set-piece into a tailspin. Penalty Italy and a first chance for replacement Tommaso Allan to show what he has got from the tee.

It is a slight improvement on Kelly Haimona's efforts, but not good enough for three points. His kick drifts past and Scotland still lead.

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"That's an interesting change there for Scotland as it isn't like for like. A great opportunity for Hamish Watson coming on making his debut."

Replacement

Hamish Watson on for Johnnie Beattie in the Scottish pack.

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Julie Adair: At a conference in Maryland, USA. Should be listening and taking copious notes, but am following Live feed of Scotland/Italy instead. #backingblue.

BBC Sport's Andy Burke at Murrayfield: "62,188 is a record crowd for this fixture at Murrayfield, but the home support are still waiting on their team's supposed superiority being turned into a decent lead on the scoreboard. Errors in handling and kicking are frustrating the Scottish fans, and as long as Italy remain in touch, tension will abound."

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

Reuters

Some big, big hits going in from both sides at the moment, who have played very well in the middle of the park so far today."

Mark Bennett, low-slung with a piston-like handover, keeps the tacklers at bay as he thunders up midfield. He has been impressive today. But this second half has yet to catch fire. Play bogged down in the middle third of the pitch and neither team finding their attacking groove.

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Rich in Bristol: Improve the scrums by offering the team with the put-in the option of contested or uncontested. This will ensure the scrum is completed if you want to run backs moves. Additionally, teams with weaker scrums will concede fewer penalties on their own put-in.

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

"I think George Clancy has just favoured Italy in the scrum this afternoon. In the Scotland corner, it just needs that drop of the shoulder and a bit of pressure to force the opportunity."

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

PA

"Scrums are only supposed to be means of restarting a game. It's not a mini game-within-a-game, despite what certain players would tell you. Let's just get on with it, let's just play more rugby that's more appealing to the majority of fans watching both here and at home."

George Clancy seems to have just given up on the two front rows. "I can't manage it any more. You just have to get on with it," says the Irish referee at scrum time.

Scotland get a shove on and get in Clancy's good books. Penalty awarded and Stuart Hogg clears up to halfway.

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Will Moody in Edinburgh: The battle for the wooden spoon is a great adjunct to studying in the library. Sport helps the concentration... Right?

Replacement

A switch at fly-half from Italy who bring on the Scottish-raised Tommaso Allan for Kelly Haimona.

The ball goes to ground as Scotland try and build pressure and an Italian boot fly-hacks high, hard and clear.

Scotland lose the resulting aerial ping-pong and we are back up to halfway.

Italy concede their sixth penalty of the day as some good work from Mark Bennett - clamping down over the top - lures George Clancy into blowing up for holding on.

Stuart Hogg boots up towards the corner.

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

"I think the balance of play lies with the replacements. Italy are playing such an expansive form of rugby, it's going to tire the front line. How those players off the bench exploit the spaces will be key."

Kick-off

Kelly Haimona gets up us and running with a hanging restart. Scotland are secure underneath it.

A tightrope walk of a scoreline for both sides.

Sir Ian McGeechan

Former Lions and Scotland coach on BBC One

"I'll be disappointed if Scotland restart with some nervousness. They're working tremendously well off the ball. They're prepared to get it away in to space and work the spaces."

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Stuart in Argyll: Well... Cotter did say he wanted to return Scotland to their traditional form of play. Job done!

EPA

Business-like downstairs, party upstairs.

Loving the token bit of fancy dress that these two fellas have gone for. I think it is all-or-nothing with the novelty outfits...

Sir Ian McGeechan

Former Lions and Scotland coach on BBC One

"It almost looks as though the post helped Venditti out on that try for Italy. Fair do's to him, it was really well controlled with the players piling in. To have that understanding in that circumstance shows great awareness."

What to make of that then? A strong start from Scotland, undermined by a little loss of focus and large slice of bad luck.

Here are the stats from the first half.

Scotland-Italy

Tackles made: 72-47

Tackles missed: 5-11

Turnovers won: 3-2

Penalties conceded: 5-5

Carries: 50-60

Offloads 5-4

Metres made: 247-181

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Dr Why: Well played, Italy.

Dan McLean: Italy resilient in defence, Scotland lacking creativity.

Rob Cox: Cracking game of rugby. So much going into a wooden spoon game, as always.

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Dan in Edinburgh: The Italian back line is standing very deep during their attacking phases, do you think this is hindering their ability to make ground against a tight Scottish defence?

Cammie in Fife: The scrums are making this game ludicrously boring. Clancy can do more to make it a free flowing game to watch.

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Antonio Falisi: Who can't beat Italy? It's a joke if Scotland lose to them.

Stephen Barr: So poor from Scotland. Do they actually want to win? Still too many errors.

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"I have to say, 10 minutes ago I was not expecting Scotland to lead just by a point at the interval. Huge credit to Italy, who have been more of a handful at the scrum and have come right back into this game.

"I have been disappointed with the Scots. They lead by 10 points from almost the off, but Italy have had the majority of this game. Vern Cotter will be raising his voice inside that dressing room, and Scotland need to come out a much better side in the second half."

Half-time

BBC Sport

Nope, penalty to Scotland as Italy come in at the side and Stuart Hogg opts to boot to the touchline, before setting off in pursuit.

Into injury-time at the end of the first half. Italy are rumbling up over the Scotland 10m line. One last roll of the dice before the half-time oranges?

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"A kick up the rear end there for Scotland, who have not been on their game for the last 15 minutes. They need to inject real enthusiasm and pace into their play in this match."

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"Venditti's done very well here. You can clearly see that the point of the ball is on the line within one movement. That goes to show that you should always chase the kick as you never know what's going to happen."

Try

Getty Images

The Italy replacements who were jumping up and down in the dead-ball area were right.

Giovanbattista Venditti's dutiful chase of Kelly Haimona's kick has earned him a try and bought Italy a route back into the match.

It is a one-point ball game.

Try review

Kelly Haimona's kick bounces off the upright, evades Greig Laidlaw's grasp and Italy winger Giovambattista Venditti climbs like Dennis Rodman to claim the loose ball. Has he got the ball down and over the line on his return to earth?

The video official will decide...

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Whoever's at fault here, please sort it out. I would love to see a scrum rather than a penalty every single time. If there's going to be a penalty every time we might as well not have scrums at all."

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

PA

"The scrums have been a joke from both sides. George Clancy's got frustrated and now he's giving penalties after he gave that long lecture. The three scrums since then have resulted in penalties."

Another busted scrum. Scotland to blame and Kelly Haimona is going to have a pop...

Blair Cowan has been one of the cult hits of this Six Nations. He secures another turnover, stripping the ball from Eduardo Gori, but Italy George Fabio Biagi barges his way through the breakdown and hacks on.

The line beckons, but George Clancy was accidentally floored on his way through and the referee calls for a scrum to restart.

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

"Trying to play out of your own half is a dangerous tactic at this level. I'm not sure if Italy are allergic to kicking out of hand, but it's something they need to learn to get themselves out of pressure quickly."

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"Lots of phases there for Scotland. Sometimes it looked quite dangerous, but it was all started from a high ball where Tommy Seymour tried to get up high and early and I think that was a direct result of what happened two weeks ago between Finn Russell and Dan Biggar."

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"There are a lot of nice interchanges between forwards and backs. If Scotland can continue to play this way and build their confidence then I am reasonably encouraged. If they can show that intent, almost a Glasgow way of playing rugby, then they will score some tries that they otherwise wouldn't. I'm hugely optimistic about what the future holds."

A bit of a hold-up for some patching-up. As Scotland huddle up, I think Grieg Laidlaw will be pretty happy with his side so far.

Italy's defence, a pale shadow of their effort against Ireland on the opening weekend, has given them licence to run the ball and they have done so with conviction and invention, as well as taking the points away from the Italy 22m.

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Introvert Dave: Hopefully they will be able to scrummage on the first attempt soon.

Adam Martin: If the forwards aren't doing scrums properly, penalise them! No idea why Clancy is dragging this out for ages each time.

Matthew Hall: Anyone else think scrums are a complete waste of time in rugby at the moment? Just award a penalty or free kick? Uncontested?

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Champagne rugby by Scotland, popping the ball out of the tackle to keep the Italians moving and the point of attack switching. They are up to the Italy 10m line with six phases on the clock.

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

"That's the worst of the penalties so far Italy have conceded from a coach's perspective. It was needless and right in front of the posts."

Penalty

PA

Lazy running and lazy thinking from Italy as their defensive line creeps up past the rear foot and offside. It is right in front of the sticks and Greig Laidlaw's right peg has been freshly oiled before this one.

Another easy swing, another three points.

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"I can almost hear the frustration in George Clancy's voice. He's going to start penalising people soon."

"Can you deliver on that simple instruction?" asks George Clancy. "The attitude is really terrible here."

The Irish referee's patience has worn thin with the two front rows and the inevitable penalty is awarded against Italy. I think he just wanted to get the game going either way.

Peter Horne boots up just short of Italy's 22m.

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

"It's great phases of play from Italy, building a bit of pressure. But it's in the wrong half of the field. If you do make a mistake in your own half, it just puts the pressure back on yourself. The turnovers are hurting Italy at the moment from needless errors."

Shapeless midfield bish-bosh at the moment with both sides struggling to build a series of phases.

Giovanbattista Venditti bumbles the ball forward, but Scotland kick away their advantage.

Suddenly Sergio Parisse breaks down the blindside, cover comes across, an outrageous back of the hand offload!

But Leondardo Ghiraldini was not expecting that bit of mischief and the ball goes forward off his paw...

Scarf chat

bbcrugby

Joe Davies: That was some scarf that Inverdale was wearing!

Ben Smith: Did Inverdale lose a bet or did he wear that scarf voluntarily?

James Roberts: Invers has borrowed that scarf from Sir Elton, by the looks of it!

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"Vern Cotter will be very frustrated as twice from a kick-off, Scotland have conceded. He'll be very disappointed with the lack of concentration there."

Penalty

Getty Images

Finally Kelly Haimona fixes the sights and finds his range, popping over a kick from a tight angle as Scotland make a mess of the restart

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Scotland are just keeping the scoreboard ticking over. You don't need to keep rattling up tries when you've got a kicker of the quality of Greig Laidlaw."

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"Peter Horne attacks the ball very well off the back of the line-out, showing the pace he can bring to the back line for Scotland. It set up the momentum to force an error with Italy being caught off their feet."

Penalty

AP

Peter Horne is making an immediate impression, taking the ball flat and moving forward. He pops Tommy Seymour into a hole as the winger comes in off the blindside looking for work.

Italy's cover scrags the breakaway but Francesco Minto is off his feet and Greig Laidlaw punishes him off the tee.

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Michael McGrady: That's how you maul, Italy. Beautiful.

Jonathan Chase: That rolling maul was a beauty. Worthy of an instructional video.

Steve Jones: You have to respect Italy's attitude this Six Nations. Fantastic response.

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Stuart Hogg is probably the most entertaining player in the Six Nations. He is not the best kicker though. A rather aimless punt forward is over-cooked and Kelly Haimona claims the mark under zero pressure and clears Italy's lines.

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"A magnificent Italy try! The drove and repelled Scotland, and while the hosts were trying to regroup Italy powered over. A great, great try. Scotland's coaches will be very displeased with that effort."

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

"Exceptional cohesion and communication there with the front part of the maul staying together. There was only one way it could go if Italy's forwards successfully held on to possession."

Try

Getty Images

An immediate response as the Italians take it back to the old school.

It is like a scene from the Eton Wall Game (have a little internet search) as the whole pack and most of the backs throw their collective shove behind a rolling maul and it is Joshua Furno who emerges grinning from the depths to claim the score.

Kelly Haimona screws a tricky conversion wide.

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"The game looked as though Italy were playing in slow motion, and it was such a laboured pass that allowed Bennett to stroll in, intercept and score under the posts. Scotland now have a chance of opening up a lead and running away with this now."

Carlo Del Fava

Former Italy lock on BBC One

PA

"It's not exactly the start Italy would've wanted in the first 10 minutes, but that's the danger when you try to play wide, expansive rugby like that, it leaves you susceptible to interceptions."

Try

PA

Kelly Haimona might as well have hired a sky-writer.

The Italy fly-half telegraphs a long mis-pass towards Sergio Parisse and Mark Bennett strolls in to pick off the ball and scamper in under the sticks and unopposed.

Greig Laidlaw plonks over the extras.

Everyone loves a series of re-set scrums don't they? No? Oh, well it looks like we are in for plenty.

George Clancy has already read the riot act to the two front rows as they muck around at the first chance to pack down.

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Gerald Segal: C'mon Scotland! No more valiant defeats please.

Ben Hook: Why are Scotland playing in red at home again?!

Andrew Falvey: Inverdale's scarf made me feel a bit sick....

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Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"We've already seen two instances why Peter Horne is at fly-half today. His off-loading and awareness of runners has been spot on."

Scotland showing a bit of dash and dart as Alex Durbar picks a cute angle and runs the ball out from on his own 22 metres. Then Blair Cowan bags some sweet turnover ball as the Italian line-out splutters and the ball floats long over the back of the queue.

Scotland rumble on to within sight of the Italian line, but Jonny Gray's attempt to offload dribbles forward to hand possession back to blue.

Andy Nicol

Former Scotland scrum-half on BBC One

"A good start for Scotland, not that they had to do much. George Clancy predicting where the first movement in at the side would come from. He's set the stall out early and is telling the players he'll be looking at that very closely today."

Penalty

Brainless from the Italian forwards as they safely gather the initial kick-off, but flood into the subsequent ruck at all sort of squinty angles. George Clancy pings any one of three - maybe Josh Furno is the most guilty - and Greig Laidlaw slaps over a simple kick from bang in front.

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"If Scotland can have a very promising 10 or 15 opening minutes here then we'll be in for a great afternoon, as far as this crowd are concerned. And it's packed in here, with very few empty seats."

Kick-off

George Clancy is the man in charge today. A toot of his whistle and Stuart Hogg boots the ball into play.

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Adam Williams-Online

Elizabeth in Middlesbrough: Where did John Inverdale get that amazing rugby scarf from?

"Amazing" is one word...

Arms over shoulders out on the pitch and in the stands as the 60,000 spectators and their 15 representatives join in a stirring rendition of Flower of Scotland.

We are almost ready for the off...

BBC Sport's Andy Burke at Murrayfield: "You detect a hint of flatness among Scotland fans in and around Murrayfield. Perhaps that's because Italy don't set pulses racing quite like some other Six Nations rivals, but it could also be due to the fact that a campaign that promised so much now looks like another straight fight to avoid the Wooden Spoon. A few tries would get the home crowd pumped up again."

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Raz Razin: God, I love Six Nations time!

Sam: Its a haggis-fuelled, kilt-wearing, whiskey-drinking, bagpipe-playing Robbie Burns-loving, Scotland-supporting house today.

Chris Higgins: Time for Scotland v Italy. The wooden spoon is polished and ready...

Get in touch using #bbc6nations, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or Google+ area. You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

Sir Ian McGeechan

Former Lions and Scotland coach on BBC One

"I think Peter Horne's adaptable in the role at fly-half, he's a good all round sportsman who'll be able to see the spaces. I think working around the two Glasgow centres, he'll be able to spot the runners and get a feel for the plays."

All the social media chat at the end of this week was about the colour of a dress.

Well, don't adjust your sets, Scotland, at home, are going to turn out in red today. Greig Laidlaw has just marched the hosts out for the anthems.

Former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Only in the professional game have we seen both of these sides out on the pitch warming up for a good 40 minutes. Afterwards they're sweating and breathing really heavily, and a far as I'm concerned it's a full half they've played. Not like in my day!

"This is must-win for Scotland. Over 60,000 are expected here this afternoon, which just illustrates the public's support. Scotland have a lot of young talent, and I'm pretty optimistic. I expect them to emerge reasonably safe victors after 80 minutes today."

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Coverage is under way on 5 live sports extra, live from Murrayfield in the company of Iain Carter and former Scotland and Lions captain Gavin Hastings.

Later, from 17:00 GMT, it'll be France v Wales on BBC Radio 5 live.

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Scotland coach Vern Cotter speaking to Jill Douglas on BBC One: "We expect a very physical game. The rain's held off until now and hopefully it will until the end of the match, so we can put some speed and intensity into our moves. We expect it to be a very tough game. It's a great opportunity for Peter Horne today at fly-half, if we can get him fast ball, he'll be able to set those guys outside of him alive."

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Italy have played more than 35 away games in the history of the Six Nations. They have won only one.

2007. Murrayfield. And it was by quite a margin too.

The Azzurri romped out to a 21-0 lead in no time and nursed that cushion through to a 37-17 win.

This Scotland side make mistakes, but I don't think Vern Cotter men have the sort of first-half hari-kari committed that day in them.

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Italy team manger Carlo Checchinato speaking to Jill Douglas on BBC One: "We put in a good defence against Ireland, a good attack against England. I hope today we can put both facets of our game together. It will be a good challenge for us. Scotland on statistics is the nation we have won the most matches against in the Six Nations, so it's definitely one we target. My main concern today is a team which plays to its full potential in defence and attack."

Team news

What with canine related mishaps and failed disciplinary appeals, it is time for a quick run-down on the full team lists:

Scotland: 15-Stuart Hogg, 14-Tommy Seymour, 13-Mark Bennett, 12-Alex Dunbar, 11-Sean Lamont, 10-Peter Horne, 9-Greig Laidlaw (capt); 8-Johnnie Beattie, 7-Blair Cowan, 6-Rob Harley, 5-Jonny Gray, 4-Tim Swinson, 3-Euan Murray, 2-Ross Ford, 1-Alasdair Dickinson.

Replacements: 16-Fraser Brown, 17-Ryan Grant, 18 Geoff Cross, 19-Ben Toolis, 20-Hamish Watson, 21-Sam Hidalgo-Clyne, 22-Greig Tonks, 23-Matt Scott.

Italy: 15-Luke McLean, 14-Michele Visentin, 13-Luca Morisi, 12-Enrico Bacchin, 11-Giovambattista Venditti, 10-Kelly Haimona, 9-Edoardo Gori, 8-Sergio Parisse (capt), 7-Simone Favaro, 6-Francesco Minto, 5-Joshua Furno, 4-George Fabio Biagi, 3-Dario Chistolini, 2-Leondardo Ghiraldini, 1-Matias Aguero

Replacements: 16-Andrea Manici, 17-Alberto De Marchi, 18-Lorenzo Cittadini, 19-Marco Fuser, 20-Samuela Vunisa, 21-Guglielmo Palazzani, 22-Tommaso Allan, 23-Giulio Bisegni

Showing a "bit of dog" or a "bit of mongrel" is usually a good thing for a front-row forward.

Martin Castrogiovanni got a little too close to the canines this week though.

The Italian prop is missing today's match after getting 14 stitches in a wound inflicted while playing with a friend's dog.

Considering he turns the air blue over the details of two-year-old contract negotiations, you might think that he would take it particularly badly.

Well, he has been out on lip-syncing app Dubsmash, mocking himself with a rendition of "Who let the Dogs out?" with Sergio Parisse on backing vocals.

Castro

AP

Chris Paterson

Former Scotland international on BBC One

Asked his views on the suspension of Scotland fly-half Finn Russell for his tackle on Wales's Dan Biggar two weeks ago: "I think it's so disappointing to see a player miss out on an international occasion for something like that. There was no intent to harm or injure Dan Biggar. Finn Russell was doing all he could to avoid contact and he had a fraction of a second to make a decision. It seems a harsh punishment for an incident like that."

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The only way that Scotland's Finn Russell is getting on the telly today will be by breaking out some of the hot-stepper dance moves that he showcased on the sidelines during the autumn internationals.

The Glasgow fly-half has failed in his attempt to overturn a two-week ban for upending an airbourne Dan Biggar in the defeat to Wales a fortnight ago and is replaced by club team-mate Peter Horne.

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Author JK Rowling tweets: Good luck @Scotlandteam! (They're playing rugby against Italy this afternoon and if you RT this you will be one of my favourite people)

What stories might you have missed on the newsstands this morning? Well, none now. We have mugged the paperboy to bring you the choicest Six Nations cuts...

Wales wing George North, 22, has admitted taking three "massive blows" to his head as he prepares to return against France after suffering concussion against England. (Daily Telegraph)

England head coach Stuart Lancaster looks set to oppose proposals to reform the Aviva Premiership by abolishing promotion and relegation because he is concerned what effect it would have on the Test side. (Daily Mail)

Former England forward Dean Ryan believes Ireland coach Joe Schmidt could be the best coach in Europe. (Guardian)

Tommy Seymour, the Scotland wing, 26, has revealed how the Scottish camp are fed up being described as "valiant losers." (Independent)

World Cup winner Matt Dawson believes England should be setting their sights on winning the Six Nations after beating Wales in Cardiff. (Daily Mirror)

Pipers? Check.

John Inverdale complete with natty neckwear? Check.

Eddie Butler growling single words over a string-backed montage? Check.

We have lift-off on BBC One.

Click at the top of this page to start watching...

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Samepictureeveryday / Facebook

I learned today that hundreds of thousands of people follow social media accounts that post identical pictures every day.

We are all doomed aren't we?

Anyway, if social media is your thing then why not raise the bar slightly and hit us with suggestions for a better figurative 'loser's trophy' than a wooden spoon.

Maybe the team who finish bottom of the Six Nations could be hosed down by the "heat spray of shame".

#bbc6nations on Twitter, 81111 on text, or the BBC Sport Facebook and Google+ pages are where to go with your suggestions.

Get involved #bbc6nations

Andrew Cotter

BBC Sport rugby union commentator

On Twitter: Beautiful day in Paris (or as they say in French, Paris). France v Wales kick-off 5pm UK Time.

BBC Sport

Final Score, Saturday Sportsday, Pointless Celebrities. You all had your fun.

Last week the Six Nations took a rest and they all piled onto the BBC One schedule.

This week, they have been unceremoniously turfed out as rugby regains its rightful place.

Scotland v Italy and France v Wales are both live on BBC television's main stage.

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra will be pumping out commentary from Edinburgh with 5 live doing the same in Paris.

You can get all that from this very page. Just click on the live coverage tab at the top of your screen.

AP

Only twice in 15 editions of the Six Nations has the Wooden Spoon not ended up in the possession of either Scotland or Italy.

Whoever loses today at Murrayfield won't necessarily be picking up another unwanted kitchen utensil. This year's Six Nations is too difficult to predict to be sure of that.

But for both teams, this is the most winnable fixture left on the list.

So far in this Six Nations, Scotland have scored more tries in Paris than France.

In their meeting with England a fortnight ago, Italy ran in three tries - as many as Wales, Australia and Samoa managed to score between them against Stuart Lancaster's side in their previous three Tests.

But this isn't figure-skating. There are no marks for artistic merit. No bonus points for entertaining the masses.

This is the Six Nations and Scotland and Italy are both rock bottom of the table with two defeats and a big fat donut in the wins column.

Adam Williams-Online

Zero.

Zilch.

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Nada.

Zip.

PA

Niente.

Diddly-squat.