A fine all-round performance from Andy Northcote inspired Italy to their third consecutive victory against Gibraltar at College Field.

The off spinner claimed 4 for 14 to help restrict Gibraltar to a below par 81 for 8. He was helped by some energetic Italian fielding, with Damian Crowley and Michael Raso taking superb catches on the boundaries.

Opening bowler Din Alaud also turned in a fine spell, to finish with 3 for 20, as all the Italian bowlers helped keep the shackles on the Gibraltar side.

Gayashan Munasinghe (1-21) was the other wicket taker, and both Peter Petricola (0-14) and Dilan Fernando (0-11) bowled well.

Kieron Ferrary (16), and Dave Coram (11) shared an opening stand of 27, but thereafter it was a story of struggle in the face of the accurate attack.

Iain Latin top scored with 20 from 16 balls, including the only six of the innings, while Ian Farrell made 11 not out.

An opening stand of 61 between Northcote and Damien Fernando meant the result was never in any doubt, with both finding the boundaries with regularity. Fernando struck four boundaries in one over from Aaron Baglietto, taking full advantage of the fielding restrictions in the power play overs.

He had scored 24 before being bowled by Kayron Stagno in his first over. Alessandro Bonora was well run out by Bacarese, but that was the end of the success for Gibraltar, as Northcote (38*) secured the eight wicket win with 10.2 overs remaining.

The win takes Italy clear at the top of the table, ahead of Austria, Guernsey and Norway, who have two wins each.