1
Scarlets too good as Zebre slump to a 12th successive URC defeat
By PA
The Scarlets claimed their first away win of the season as they defeated URC opponents Zebre Parma 41-24 at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi. The Welsh side built a victory platform through first-half tries from Corey Baldwin, his fellow wing Ryan Conbeer and full-back Johnny McNicholl.
Lock Sam Lousi added a bonus-point score early in the second period before flanker Tomas Lezana and substitute Carwyn Tuipulotu also crossed, while fly-half Rhys Patchell kicked a penalty and three conversions, and his replacement Sam Costelow added a two-pointer.
Zebre slumped to a 12th successive URC defeat this term, with their only highlights provided by fly-half Carlo Canna, full-back Michelangelo Biondelli and wing Giovanni D’Onofrio claiming tries. Canna landed a penalty and conversion, and Biondelli and Antonio Rizzi kicked two points apiece.
The Scarlets made a bright URC start in perfect conditions, with Conbeer almost squeezing over for a try after centre Joe Roberts’ well-placed kick caused problems for Zebre’s defence. Patchell kicked the visitors into a 15th-minute lead through a short-range penalty, but there was little to choose between the sides following an error-strewn opening quarter.
Italy head coach Kieran Crowley, fresh from masterminding a stunning Guinness Six Nations victory over Wales last weekend, looked on, but Zebre were undone by an opening Scarlets try after 22 minutes. Scrum-half Gareth Davies was the creator, delivering an exquisite inside pass to Baldwin, who rounded his opposite number Simone Gesi with ease and touched down, with Patchell converting.
Canna opened Zebre’s account when he landed a penalty, but the Scarlets stung their hosts by claiming two tries in five minutes before the interval. Conbeer finished well under pressure from Zebre defenders, with Patchell adding a conversion from the touchline, then an attacking Scarlets line-out saw possession moved quickly and McNicholl crossed between the posts.
Patchell again slotted the extras as the Scarlets moved through the gears to secure a 24-3 lead at half-time. Zebre dominated early territory in the second period, with number eight Renato Giammarioli prominent, but they could not make it count.
And from their first notable attack of the half, the Scarlets secured a bonus point after number eight Sione Kalamafoni was tackled just short of the line and Zebre could not prevent a supporting Lousi from crossing.
Zebre at least gave their supporters something to shout about through quality tries in quick succession from Canna and Biondelli, but Lezana’s effort ensured that normal service was soon resumed as the Scarlets eased home during a flurry of second-half scoring.
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Initial Immanuel Feyi-Waboso injury update does not sound promising
3
Ex-Wallaby explains why All Blacks aren’t at ‘panic stations’
4
Leinster player ratings vs Connacht | 2024/25 URC
5
Latest Comments
Hopefully Joe stays where he is. That would mean Les, McKellar, larkham and Cron should as well. It’s the stability we need in the state programs. But, if Joe goes, RA with its current financial situation will be forced into promoting from within. And this will likely destabilise other areas.
To better understand some of the entrenched bitterness of those outside of NZ and NSW (as an example 😂), Nic, there is probably a comparison to the old hard heads of welsh rugby who are still stuck in the 1970s. Before the days where clubs merged, professionalism started, and the many sharp knives were put into the backs of those who loved the game more than everyone else. I’m sure you know a few... But given your comparison of rugby in both wales and Australia, there are a few north of the tweed that will never trust a kiwi or NSWelshman because of historical events and issues over the history of the game. It is what it is. For some, time does not heal all wounds. And it is still festering away in some people. Happy holidays to you. All the best in 2025.
Go to commentsNot surprised to see Barretts rating. He has always been a solid defender for the ABs but not particularly effective in attack situations.
Go to comments