Tornike Okriashvili's long-range effort has brought Georgia level with the Republic of Ireland at half time of their opening Euro 2016 qualifier in Tbilisi this evening.

After a tentative opening 20 minutes, it was hosts Georgia who had the first real chance when Nikoloz Gelashvili darted in from the right wing and fired just wide.

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Moments later, Ireland were in front with the first goal of Euro 2016 qualifying from any side as Everton's Aiden McGeady received a pass from Toffees teammate James McCarthy before slotting home.

Georgia equalised in the 38th minute when Okriashvili, of Belgian side Genk, twisted and turned 25 yards out before dipping a shot just under the crossbar past the helpless David Forde.

Written by
Pascal Lemesre