France cling on to edge out Italy after Sergio Parisse blows drop goal

• France 23-21 ItalyIt began as a celebration of sorts, marking the safe return of sport to St-Denis and a welcome to the new age of French rugby under Guy Novès, complete with the coach’s promise to create a new atmosphere. There was an atmosphere, but not exactly what he had in mind as the Stade held its breath and watched Italy rumble and drive into drop-goal range. They trailed by two points and the clock was past the 80-minute mark as none other than Sergio Parisse dropped into the pocket and swung his boot.It turned out to be an inelegant swing, the first clumsy stroke by the capt…