Ireland opened the defence of their Six Nations crown with a 26-3 win over Italy at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
Sean O'Brien was a late withdrawl from the game – he pulled a hamstring in the warm-up and was replaced by Tommy O'Donnell.
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Ian Keatley hit three first half penalties to leave Ireland 9-3 up at half time, and added a fourth early in the second half.
Conor Murray and Tommy O'Donnell then crossed for tries in quick succession, with the extras being added.
The Italians put the pressure on in the closing stages, but the Irish line held firm.
