#IREvITA: History between the pair

Today's Pool D clash features two well acquainted European adversaries, Ireland and Italy.  The Irish enter clear favorites over the Azzuri. However despite Ireland’s flattering history in Italian fixtures, just two years ago the Italians came away victors in Rome, marking the end of Declan Kidney's era. Before 2013, Italy's last victory came as far back as 1997.

Since taking the reins, Schimdt has racked up two weighty wins over Italy, outscoring them by a cumulative total of 72-10, in both home and away contests. Recent history bodes well for the Irish.

2015: Ireland 26-3 in Rome
2014: Ireland 46-7 in Dublin
2013: Italy 15-22 in Rome 
2012: Ireland 42-10 in Dublin
2011: Ireland 36-6 in Dunedin

Parisse’s return will no doubt boost moral in the Italian camp, and many will expect an upturn in Italy's performance this evening. Ireland cannot afford complacency if they’re to both secure a place and evade the All Blacks in the quarter finals.