A dominant nine-try performance by Greece condemned Italy to relegation from Euro C, after a 46-14 triumph at the Pasian Di Prato Stadium in Udine. The hosts took an early lead through hooker Nicolas Lenaz but opposite number Deon Iro replied almost instantly and, from there, the visitors dominated.

Greece head coach, Steve Georgalis, commented: “I’m very happy with the performance after our loss with Ukraine. We played well in the first 10-15minutes when the Italians came at us and completed well. Even though it was a short turnaround, our structures were better from it being a second game together and we were impressive overall.”

Fullback Tyrone Tsagalias maintained his good form with two tries and five goals for a personal tally of 18 points, Eddie Markopoulos also crossing twice, his first towards the end of the opening half making it 26-4 at the break.

Greece took advantage of George Stamatos’s sinbinning in the 65th minute for a high tackle, posting two tries in his absence to illustrate their overall dominance. Their win sees them retain their place in Euro C next year.

Italy head coach, Leo Epifania, bemoaned: “We weren’t good enough, simple as that. Whatever circumstances went against us, we were unable to respond and that’s really disappointing.”