Paterson kicks Scots into the quarters

Scotland's Chris Paterson kicks at goal during his team's Rugby World Cup Pool C match against Italy in Saint-Etienne, France, on Saturday. PHOTO: AP

Chris Paterson kicked all 18 points to steer Scotland to an 18-16 win over Italy on Saturday and into the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals.

In a match dominated by kicking, both goal and tactical, Paterson landed six from six attempts, allowing Scotland to finish as Group C runner-up for a quarter-final against Argentina, France or Ireland in Paris on Oct. 7.

Paterson still perfect through this tournament with his goal kicking, having now landed 15 straight.

Scotland, who made the 1991 semi-finals for their best-ever finish, avenged Italy's 37-17 victory at Murrayfield in the Six Nations in February, largely through a dominant lineout and flyhalf Dan Parks' excellent kicking game.

"Obviously, I am delighted that we have got another opportunity to show how we can play," Scotland coach Frank Hadden said. "When the rain came down there was only one kind of rugby to be played, but full credit to the Italians."

Italy flanker Mauro Bergamasco said his team had gone close to a first quarter-final appearance.

"I think we can look everyone in the eyes," he said. "If we can cry for this match, because it was a really important match, if we cry it is good for our future. This experience gives us a lot in the future."

"I want to thank everyone for their support, there were a lot of Italians in the crowd, we are proud of that. We fought for everyone and their support," Bergamasco said.

Italy Alessandro Troncon, playing in his 101st Test, scored the only try in the first half at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.