Damien Stevens dives over for the opening try [Source: World Rugby]

Italy managed to beat Namibia 47-22 in their first Rugby World Cup Pool B clash at Hanazono Rugby Stadium.

Italy crossed for seven tries but Namibia won over new fans with their never-say-die approach in testing conditions to finish with three of their own.

After a brilliant start, spirited Namibia was battling to hold Italy at bay in a free-flowing opening half but Italy’s experience was too much to handle.

Namibia got off with a dream start when scrum-half Damien Stevens dived over for the try, successfully converted by fly-half Cliven Loubser for a 7-0 lead.

Minutes later, though, it was the Namibians on the back foot and it took frantic defence to keep Sergio Parisse from forcing his way over.

But they were soon level, the Italian scrum far too strong and experienced as they pushed for the line and earned a penalty try.

Second Italy try came in stunning fashion with Allan finishing off under the posts after a slick movement that figured Luca Morisi. Allan converted and Italy were 14-7 ahead.

Italy extended their lead after the half-time siren had sounded after Tito Tebaldi found space down the left from just outside the 22 with Allan able to convert, taking the lead to 21-7.

One hour has gone and it’s still @Federugby who lead. Point scorers below.

Follow #ITAvNAM on our live blog at https://t.co/vb6BhqCOdU #RWC2019 pic.twitter.com/RoMb9H6iEq

— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) September 22, 2019

He came out no nowhere! How good was this from Namibia’s JC Greyling, brilliant try saving tackle #ITAvNAM #RWC2019

Find out where you can watch at https://t.co/z0BgdPH0sf pic.twitter.com/IsVs1UcWqQ

— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) September 22, 2019

Italy managed to score a try just three minutes into the second half through Edoardo Padovani which was converted by Allan.

Carlo Canna had only been on the field a minute when he crossed soon after, though it had to be confirmed by the TMO.

Canna converted and Italy were 35-7 ahead.

To their credit, Namibia never gave up and they got on the board again with a 50th-minute penalty from Loubser and then sealed a well-earned try that was worked from the base of a scrum, with winger JC Greyling finishing off.

With 10 minutes left, Italy was over again from a set-piece try from a lineout, through Jake Poledri taking the plaudits this time to take the lead to 40-15.

The Italians’ seventh try came through replacement back Matteo Minozzi, but Namibia had the last laugh, Plato capping a super display when he broke through the defence 30 metres out to post their third try in fine style.

[Source: World Rugby]