Italy’s ‘ice girl’ Michela Sillari proved her cool after her high-stakes penalty kick secured a 10-8 victory against Wales in the last round of the TikTok Women’s Six Nations.
Coming into Super Saturday with the best goal-kicking success rate, Sillari finished her campaign landing all eight of her shots at goal.
And with the seconds counting down on the clock, she edged the Azzurre ahead to finish their competition on a high.
And head coach Andrea di Giandomenico applauded her composure at such a critical time.
He said: “It’s so great for us and the players when you are confident in your job.
“We know Michela. She’s the ice girl and it’s important and part of the skills of the players to keep calm, so we are happy.”
Italy began their TikTok Women’s Six Nations with defeats to France, England and Ireland but now come away with two wins in two games after a 20-13 victory against Scotland.
And with Wales down to 13 after high tackles from Wales’ Robyn Wilkins and Sioned Harries saw them in the sinbin, di Giandomenico’s side were quick to take advantage.
They struck gold in the 32 minute as most capped player, Sara Barattin, thwarted Wales’ defence and touched the ball over the line.
This gave Sillari her first attempt as she converted the try to make it 7-0 to Italy. Wales piled on the pressure until the very last second as a try from Kiera Bevan made it 8-7 with just four minutes to go.
But eventually, it all came down to Sillari. And a late penalty kick within distance of the posts was no match for the 29-year-old as the ball soared down the middle to claim victory for the away side.
Di Giandomenico said: “I’m really proud of the players and I think it was a very tough game today.
“The Competition did not start in the best way for us so we had to work hard and work together, looking for confidence.
“And now we leave with a good score and a win for the journey.”
The TikTok Women’s Six Nations is more accessible than ever before. To find out how you can watch the Women's Championship visit: womens.sixnationsrugby.com/tv/
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