This archive report was first published on 26 September 2019.
Italy's Rugby World Cup campaign is gaining momentum after a 48-7 thrashing of Canada on Thursday, their second bonus-point win in as many games.
The victory, which saw Italy dominate with seven tries to one, was their biggest margin of victory at the World Cup.
With Italy seeking a first World Cup quarter-final berth, their maximum points from two matches sent a clear message to heavyweights South Africa not to underestimate them.
Italy will face South Africa in Shizuoka in eight days, and the Springboks cannot afford to take them lightly, as they did at the last World Cup when they lost to Japan.
"We've earned a few drinks tonight probably," said Italian captain Dean Budd, reflecting on the team's win.
Coach Conor O'Shea revealed he had promised his team an "old-school night" after only a four-day turnaround between games, which he said was "tough for any team, mentally as well as physically".
Italy, still with the All Blacks to play as well as South Africa, showed their depth by making 10 changes to the starting XV when they beat Namibia and were still too strong for the Canadians.
A day after Uruguay's shock win over Fiji, Canada started with hopes of achieving a similar upset, but the vastly rearranged Italian side with the superior forward pack controlled most of the game.
Italy's explosive start realised 17 points in 15 minutes, with fly-half Tommaso Allan landing a penalty and converting tries by Braam Steyn and Dean Budd.
The second half saw Italy continue to dominate, with Sebastian Negri scoring their third try, and a penalty try for an illegal tackle by Matt Heaton ensured the bonus point for Italy and reduced Canada to 14-men.
