FORMER Tynedale centre Chris Harris scored a crucial try in Scotland’s 17-0 win over Italy.

The Newcastle Falcons star played a key role as Scotland earned their first win of the Six Nations campaign.

The powerful Harris, who replaced Huw Jones in the starting XV, made his mark in the 47th minute.

He battered his way through the Italian defence in Rome to make it 10-0, following a stunning opening try from new skipper Stuart Hogg.

Adam Hastings added a shine to a 17-0 shut-out win with second-half scores.

Harris is fondly remembered at Tynedale. He made 47 appearances for the Corbridge-based club between 2011 and 2014.

The victory relieved some of the pressure on Scotland coach Gregor Townsend.

Scotland had failed to register a try in either of their two opening defeats in the Six Nations, despite having more than enough chances.

And the travelling Tartan Army must have feared their side were set for a fresh bout of white-line fever as another chance went begging eight minutes in.

But they did not lose heart, and Scotland got their rewards for three well worked tries.

Italy had to play out the final stages a man light after Federico Zani was binned for a tip-tackle on Grant Gilchrist.