Average Ireland get Italian job done

Ireland claimed an unconvincing 26-16 win against Italy in Rome on Sunday, writes SIMON BORCHARDT.

Scarlets too good for Cheetahs

Uzair Cassiem scored a try as the Scarlets powered their way to a 43-21 bonus-point win against the Cheetahs in Llanelli on Saturday. MARIETTE ADAMS reports.

Meyer’s Stade boost playoff hopes

Stade Français claimed a 27-14 victory over La Rochelle, while there were also wins for Toulouse, Toulon, Bordeaux Begles, Agen, Castres and Lyon in the French Top 14.

Saffa lock inspires Saints win

Dave Ribbans scored in stoppage time as Northampton beat Bath 27-26, while there were also wins for Gloucester, Worcester, Exeter, Sale and Harlequins in the English Premiership.

Cardiff Blues comeback floors Edinburgh

The Cardiff Blues scored a late try to stun Edinburgh 19-17, while there were also wins for Glasgow, Munster, Treviso, Ulster, Leinster and the Scarlets in the Pro14.

Five takeaways from past weekend

What we learned from the second round of Vodacom Super Rugby, according to CRAIG LEWIS.

Smal to leave early, Treu stays put

Gert Smal is set to vacate his position as Western Province director of rugby three months before his contract ends.

Mallett: Lions should have won a penalty

What NICK MALLETT had to say on SuperSport about the Vodacom Super Rugby matches at Kings Park and Newlands.

‘Stormers showed immense character’

Stormers coach Robbie Fleck says his side’s 19-17 victory over the Lions showed they can beat the stronger Vodacom Super Rugby teams. DYLAN JACK reports.

De Bruin: Super Rugby results weird

Lions coach Swys de Bruin says he doesn’t know what to make of the latest Vodacom Super Rugby results, including their 19-17 loss to the Stormers at Newlands. DYLAN JACK reports.