Wales v Italy live Six Nations updates

Wales have beaten Italy 29-17 in Rome to record their first win of this year's Six Nations.

The game was billed as one of the most important in recent Welsh rugby history, as Warren Gatland's side looked to avoid the dreaded wooden spoon and the prospect of a first Six Nations whitewash in 20 years.

But the bonus point victory has eased the pressure on the squad, who had already been comprehensively beaten by Ireland, Scotland and England earlier in the championship as woes off the field were compounded by disastrous results on it.

Questions were asked prior to kick-off whether Gatland's ripped-up side, which featured the likes of Rhys Webb making his first Six Nations start in six years, would be able to deal with the pressure of the occasion, but the visitors started the contest brightly in the dazzling Italian sunshine.

Wales raced into an early lead as Owen Williams slotted a simple penalty before Rio Dyer became the grateful recipient of a fortunate bounce from a speculative Rhys Webb kick to cross for the opening try of the afternoon.

Gatland's side did not sit back, either, with Liam Williams grabbing their second try minutes later as he rode five challenges to finish a fantastic solo effort.

Italy had a number of chances to get themselves back into the contest but were left ruing missed opportunities as they were frustrated by poor passing and a solid defensive effort from Wales.

The visitors got their third score of the afternoon shortly before half-time, as they were awarded a penalty try after Lorenzo Cannone brought down a powerful maul driven by Wales captain Ken Owens.

But while Wales started the second half with a man advantage as Cannone was sent to the bin, Italy came out fighting with Sebastian Negri scoring a deserved try for the hosts moments after the break.

Wales kept their lead, however, with Taulupe Faletau crossing after some brilliant work from the impressive work, while Pierre Bruno was also sent to the bin after colliding with Wyn Jones.

The Italians continued to threaten and got a second try through Ignacio Brex to make Gatland sweat. But Wales held firm and breathed a huge sigh of relief at the final whistle as they wrapped up the much-needed win.