Ireland Overpower Georgia in Tbilisi

Ireland opened their Summer Series tour with a dominant 34–5 win over Georgia in torrential conditions at Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, as a youthful Irish team laid down a marker in their first outing without many of their frontline stars away with the British & Irish Lions.

With eight debutants in the matchday squad and Craig Casey leading the side for the first time, Ireland made a lightning start. Winger Tommy O’Brien scored his first try just 95 seconds into his international debut, finishing off a crisp move out wide. The Leinster flyer struck again five minutes later, collecting a loose Georgian pass to sprint in under the posts.

Despite Ireland’s early 14–0 lead, the home side responded with a powerful maul try from No. 8 Tornike Jalagonia before halftime, giving Georgia a glimmer of hope going into the break at 14–5.

Ireland, however, reasserted control early in the second half. Casey, lively and composed throughout, sniped over from close range to extend the lead. Sam Prendergast added a penalty to make it 24–5, as Ireland’s grip on the match tightened.

Nick Timoney capped off a strong forward display with a bulldozing try in the final quarter, while Prendergast continued to keep the scoreboard ticking with his boot.

Ireland’s set-piece was tested, particularly in the early scrums, but their breakdown dominance and sharper execution proved decisive. Ryan Baird and Gavin Coombes stood out up front, while the backline looked sharp despite the difficult weather.

The match marked a successful start to Paul O’Connell’s tour in charge, with promising performances from several new faces. Ireland now turn their attention to next weekend’s clash with Portugal in Lisbon.

Scorers:
Ireland – Tries: O’Brien (2), Casey, Timoney. Conversions: Prendergast (3). Penalty: Prendergast
Georgia – Try: Jalagonia

Half-time: Ireland 14–5 Georgia
Full-time: Ireland 34–5 Georgia