Italy have gone on a try scoring spree at Trafalgar Park in Nelson on Tuesday, running in nine tries on their way to a 53-17 win over Russia.
The result was never in doubt for the Azzurri, scoring three tries inside the opening 15 minutes. A dominant Italian scrum gave the backs good ball all night, and the backs were able to use this to rip the Russians apart.
In only their second game in World Cup history, the Russians did manage to score three tries themselves but could not cope with the Italian side which outclassed them all over the field.
Italy scored an impressive six tries in an entertaining first half, Giulio Toniolatti picking up two to lead 38-7 at the break.
Russia will be happy with their effort, the tries from Yanyushkin, Ostroushko and Makovetskiy will give them some confidence in what will be tough games against Ireland in Rotorua before they finish against Australia back in Nelson.
Italy are the first team to break the 50 point barrier in Pool C, and with the four try bonus point are in joint second position with Australia. Another bonus point victory against their next opponents USA will keep Nick Mallets play-off dreams alive.
Italy 53
Tries: Toniolatti 2, Benvenuti 2, Parisse, Gori, McLean, Zanni, Penalty try
Cons: Bocchino 4
Russia 17
Tries: Yanyushkin, Ostroushko, Makovetskiy
Con: Rachkov