By Josh Graham at Kingston Park

Jake Maizen notched a second-half hat-trick as Italy made a dream start to their Rugby League World Cup campaign with a 28-4 win over Scotland.

On debut, Maizen put a first-half error behind him to turn on the style in the second 40 minutes as Italy powered to victory.

They had led 12-0 at the break, but Maizen put down a pass with the line at his mercy which would have made it an even bigger lead.

He more than made up for it in the second half as Italy got off to a flyer to give themselves a shot of making the quarter-finals in the group with Australia and Fiji.

Here are some of the best pictures of the day:

Scotland looked dangerous early on with Lachlan Walmsley heavily involved. He shook off a high tackle from Brenden Santi in the opening exchanges. Getty Images.

It was Italy who struck first through Luke Polselli, getting to Radean Robinson's grubber and dotting down. Getty Images.

Italy led 12-0 at half-time thanks to a second try of the first 40 from Dean Parata. Getty Images.

Jake Maizen dropped a pass in the first half when he looked certain to score but he made no mistake at the start of the second half. Getty Images.

Scotland had their chances in the first half, but that third score left them with a mountain to climb. Getty Images.

Jake Maizen completed his hat-trick in style with an 80-metre solo score. Getty Images.

Despite Maizen's hat-trick, it was Italy skipper Nathan Brown who was named Cazoo Player of the Match. Getty Images.

Jack Campagnolo and coach Leo Epifania celebrate a brilliant opening victory for Italy. Getty Images.

The Rugby League World Cup promises to be the biggest, best and most inclusive event in the sport’s 127-year history with men’s, women’s and wheelchair teams competing in 61 games across 21 venues throughout England. Tickets are available via rlwc2021.com/tickets