Scotland held a narrow two-point lead over Italy in Workington at half time of their Group C encounter.
Both countries recorded wins in their first outings in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup but neither dominated this Derwent Park encounter.
Scotland built a 14-point lead after a penalty goal from Danny Brough got them off the mark on 15 minutes.
Six minutes later, after a video review, the Scots were awarded a try to fullback Matthew Russell with Brough adding the extras.
Scotland extended that lead with Brough’s kick to the corner being picked up by Kane Linnett for another six pointer as Brough added another conversion.
Italy’s Cameron Ciraldo was held up but shortly afterwards the big second rower touched down, Josh Mantellato converting.
He also added the extras to a second Italian try as Raymond Nasso scampered over two minutes from the break.