Mallett not knocking Italy

Mallett: Big expectations

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Nick Mallett believes Italy have all the ingredients required to enjoy a successful Six Nations tournament.

The new coach of the Azzurri is getting set for his first match in charge against Ireland on February 2 in Dublin.

He has inherited a team that won twice in the tournament last year and also reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup under Pierre Berbizier.

Mallett believes they could go on to do even better in 2008, even if they are without injured lock Marco Bortolami for the first two games.

Support

"I go into the Six Nations expecting to win every game," said the former South Africa coach.

"I want my team to show courage, determination, heart and pride in every game.

"If we stay close to our opponents late in the game there's no reason why we don't have a chance to win. We will need the support of our fans."

Italy Rugby Federation president Giancarlo Dondi has confidence in Mallett to be able to continue the improvement shown in the past few years.

Optimistic

The fixture list sees the team play just two games at home in Rome, although Dondi insists there is no reason why they cannot win on their travels.

"I am optimistic that we will have a great tournament," he said.

"We will only host two games in Italy but I am hoping that the team will show fighting spirit in every game.

"We want to continue to show that we are improving year by year and to be able to compete with the best teams."