Italy 20-17 Georgia: Azzurri survive scare with fine comeback

Italy showed nerves of steel to come from behind and secure an unlikely 20-17 victory over Georgia in Florence, continuing their unbeaten start to the Autumn Nations Series.

The visitors, who shocked the world by beating Wales last week, stunned the Stadio Artemio Franchi faithful by scoring the first 17 points.

However, a stunning Tommaso Menoncello try on the half-hour mark dragged the Azzurri back into the contest, and Paolo Garbisi's flawless kicking secured a famous triumph.

Georgia dominated possession and territory in the opening quarter, and their pressure eventually told when Giorgi Kveseladze rumbled over from a rolling maul.

Tedo Abzhandadze added a penalty to extend Georgia's advantage, and when captain Merab Sharikadze got his name on the scoresheet, Italy's hopes of victory seemed all but over.

But in a captivating finale, Italy showed immense character. Menoncello's stunning solo effort sparked a revival, and with Garbisi kicking 10 points, Kieran Crowley's team earned a third victory in as many games.

For Georgia, it was a harsh lesson in the unforgiving nature of international rugby. They will have the chance to bounce back against Uruguay next week, while Italy will face Australia in their Autumn Nations Series finale.