With torrential rain falling throughout, handling errors were a theme for both sides, but Italy’s clinical edge in the opening stages and their superior set-piece proved to be the difference.
Scotland’s starting hooker Ewan Ashman had a torrid time at the lineout, with Scotland losing five of their own throws.
The new-look back three of Glasgow wingers Jamie Dobie and Kyle Steyn – and makeshift full-back Tom Jordan – were left wanting for both Italy tries.
Far too much space was left for Louis Lynagh’s opening score before the Benetton winger beat Dobie in the air moments before Tommaso Menoncello raced over in the other corner.
“Obviously, the guys are very disappointed,” Townsend added. “The effort was there. A lot of what we trained was in place. We just gave away too many possessions.
“We just weren’t able to score more points in the first half. It was extremely difficult the second half but the effort the players put in was tremendous just not enough to win the game.
“We shouldn’t have let them get ahead. They got a couple of breakaway tries. We had opportunities we didn’t take and then it made it tough after that.”
Despite the almost impossible conditions, BBC pundits unanimously agreed Italy dealt with them better.
“Both teams were playing in the same conditions,” former Scotland captain John Barclay said.
“The key moments in the game, Italy got on the right side of those.”
“Italy’s start gave them the win,” former England skipper Martin Johnson agreed.
“The game was virtually unplayable, it was that wet. If you compound errors like Scotland did, you’re going to be in trouble.”
