France got their 2021 Guinness Six Nations title bid off to the perfect start with a comfortable 50-10 bonus-point victory over Italy in the championship's opening game at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Saturday.
The French had a 21-point lead at half-time after 2020 Player of the Championship Antoine Dupont set up three tries for Dylan Cretin, Gael Fickou and Arthur Vincent.
Matthieu Jalibert then sent the three conversions through the posts.
The visitors then showed no signs of easing the relentless pressure upon the Italians after the break with Brice Dulin,Antoine Dupont and Teddy Thomas all going over the line to secure the bonus-point victory.
C'est magnifique! 👌
Dulin and Villiere combining beautifully for @FranceRugby's fourth try of the game. #GuinnessSixNations #ITAvFRA pic.twitter.com/jHd2iYqlcv
— Guinness Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) February 6, 2021
The impressive win for France highlighted the title-winning credentials of Fabien Galthie’s side, who finished second last year.
On the other side of the coin then the Italian's inexperience was laid bare.
Going into the game,11 of their starters had fewer than 10 caps and this was evident with Luca Sperandio's try only a slight consolation on a tough afternoon.
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