However the win was shrouded in controversy after Blues winger Harry Robinson appeared to have snatched a last gasp win when sliding over in the dying moments but his try was disallowed by the TMO to leave the visitors stunned.
The match was played throughout in pouring rain which meant free-flowing rugby was at a premium but it didn’t stop the home side from bursting out of the blocks. Ex-All Black scrum-half Brendon Leonard scored the opening try after just three minutes to put the Italians in front with Kelly Haimona converting.
Blues fly half Gareth Davies pegged back three points through his boot before Tom Williams was fooled by the bounce of the ball. Zebre wing Giulio Toniolatti took full advantage and scooped up the ball to glide over to give his side a 12-3 lead.
Haimona could have put Zebra out of sight but he missed three penalty kicks to keep the Blues within touching distance.
After the break Phil Davies’ side improved and Williams scored a try following a period of pressure to bring Cardiff to within two points of the Italians.
Luciano Orquera increased the home side’s lead to five points on 65 minutes with a penalty and Zebra managed to cling on for their own slice of history, albeit in controversial circumstances.
