Sunday 14 February 2016 13:01, UK
I have to start this week by saying 'Chiedo Scusa' to all Italian viewers of this blog (I'm not sure there are too many?!) but nevertheless, I grossly underestimated the Forza Italia spirit last weekend. Ultimately though, it was a game they could have, should have but didn't win.
This weekend they're up against the one side they've yet to beat since they joined the Six Nations, an England team that is looking to move up a gear after Murrayfield.
Eddie Jones has spoken about going to Rome and winning well and I think England should take this one with a lap to spare.
A note of caution, particularly with rain forecast - four of the last eight meetings between these two have been one score wins for England. But those in white put 47 points on Italy last year, and 52 on them the year before in Rome. I think England should get home by 16-20 at 9/2.
Eye on England?
If you are looking for value in Rome, I would investigate doubles - in four of the last seven meetings between these two an England player has scored two or more tries. Jonathan Joseph did just that last season and is 13/2 to repeat the feat, while Jack Nowell and Anthony Watson are both 7/1 for a brace.
Italian Stallion?
For Italy, Sergio Parisse is worth covering every time Italy play - he scored against England last year and is 7/2 anytime on Sunday.
Also worth noting Italy have scored the first try in three of the last four games with England, while Italy's outside centre has also crossed for three in four games against England. How about a lucky 13 on Michelle Campagnaro for the first try at 4/1.
