Rugby:Italy coach Jacques Brunel has ordered his side to address the lapses of concentration that are hurting them on the scoreboard ahead of their clash with Ireland. The Azzurri surrendered a 15-6 lead against England two weeks ago with a series of errors costing them a first victory over their Six Nations rivals.

England prevailed 19-15 and Brunel insists Italy must be less willing to concede points.

“It was a good chance to beat England. We’ve still got obstacles to pass, but they’re there to be jumped,” said Brunel. “We need to eliminate the defects in our game and the points we give away, and I’m not just talking about the counter-attacks.

“Three times we made a mistake against England and that was three points every time in situations that weren’t dangerous. We’re giving points away too easily and if we can eliminate that and be more effective in getting points with the boot, then we’ll have the ability to get results. That’s our first objective.”

Brunel believes one of Ireland’s greatest strengths is their ability to slow down opposition ball. “It’s their characteristic, they’re best at it, they have the ability not just to get the ball back but also dictate the rhythm of the match,” he said.

“They’re the ones who impose their rhythm on their opponents, that’s a great strength and a crucial point. If ever we can resolve that so that we don’t submit to this pressure and instead turn it around, then maybe we can get a result. They’re good at this but their strength can also be their weakness because being strong in one area can mean they are weaker in another, so it’s about solving that.”

Brunel has made four changes following the defeat by England, the most notable of which sees Tobias Botes make his first start at outhalf. Kristopher Burton is relegated to the bench alongside Gonzalo Canale, whose place at number 12 is taken by Alberto Sgarbi, while props Michele Rizzo and Lorenzo Cittadini also start.