Mallett calls for renewed focus

Italy coach Nick Mallett has told his players to focus on beating France in the Six Nations on Sunday.

Italy coach Nick Mallett has told his players to focus on beating France in the Six Nations on Sunday.

The Azzurri go into the Six Nations encounter at the Stade de France looking for their first triumph in the 2008 tournament.

The absence of experienced flank Mauro Bergamasco, who paid a high price for his action against Wales full-back Lee Byrne during Italy's 47-8 defeat in Cardiff last month, will be a big setback for the Italians.

“Mauro's absence is a big blow for us,” admitted Mallett.

“But Mauro's 13-week ban is just and we accept it. In fact, it's a good thing because the player risked a two-year ban.

“There are no excuses for his gesture and we have shown to the rest of the team the video images and explained to them the reasons why these actions are not permitted.

“I cannot accept that players lose their cool like this.”

However, Mallett claimed Bergamasco had previously been the victim of two fouls which the referee failed to act on.

“Mauro was elbowed in the neck and later was met by a high tackle when trying to pick up the ball,” he added.

“But I reiterate he should not have lost his head.”

The South African coach has requested his team are treated equally by the officials.

“Against England we had eight fouls called against us, with Ireland just six and the international average is 14 per game,” he added.

“Hence, we play clean rugby and we want to be treated the same as the others.”