Full Time Report: Italy vs Romania

Italy take victory against a spirited Romanian side here in Exeter, 32-22 the final score. A first half dominated by Italy saw the Azzurri go in the break 22 points to 3 up. As was the case against Canada, the proud, Eastern European minnow refused to throw in the towel. Vlaicu moving to 10 changed the Romanian dynamic entirely. After a forward-dominated first half, the back-lines did battle in the second. Vlaicu directed proceedings expertly at outhalf, in a half that saw Apostol cross twice and Popirlan once. Although failing to secure an automatic spot in the next World Cup, the Romanians performed admirably, pushing the Italians close in the end.