DAVID CAMPESE celebrated his 100th Test cap for Australia in Padua last night but his men had to come from behind to score a hard fought victory over Italy. Campese, 34 years old on Monday, came on to a roar and a banner declaring "Some say God, we say Campo".

But Italy led 18-13 with 25 minutes left on the clock and scored two tries to Australia's four in an inspired performance.

It was undoubtedly his night but Australia made heavy weather of the match and Campese, despite a few delightful touches, had a subdued first half.

Full back Mathew Burke missed three penalty kicks in the first 10 minutes before flanker David Wilson put the visitors ahead with a try after Michael Brial had made the inroads.

Stefano Bordon put Italy back in the game with a 22nd minute try and former Puma out half Diego Dominguez delighted the crowd with a drop goal in the 22nd minute as a confident Italy team took the lead for the first time.

Burke replied with a penalty in the 33rd minute and another on the stroke of half time.

Six minutes into the second half Dominguez deftly side stepped limping out half David Knox for Italy's second try and then converted for a 15-13 lead. Knox was substituted by Jason Little as Australia went further behind to a Dominguez penalty.

Burke kicked two more penalties to put Australia 19-18 ahead before the American referee Ed Sorenson gave the visitors a helping hand with a decision that incensed the locals.

He ruled Michael Foley had scored a pushover try despite Italian protests that he had not. The crowd shouted "idiot, idiot" and no Australian appeared to claim the score.

Italy scored no further points and faded badly, with Australian vice captain Tim Horan scoring a beautiful try in the 75th minute and Wilson his second in the final seconds.