Georgia 0 Rep of Ire 1 HT
Kevin Doyle's header ensured the Republic of Ireland went in a goal to the good at the break in Georgia.
The Reading striker lost his marker and nodded Aiden McGeady's well-placed cross past George Loria (13), with Steven Reid als going close for Giovanni Trapattoni's side soon after.
Georgia's best chance fell in the 38th minute when Alexander Iashvili headed over with the goal at his mercy.
Georgia v Rep of Ireland
Georgia: Loria, Lobjanidze, Kaladze, Shashiashvili, Kenia, Aleksidze, Iashvili, Kobiashvili, Khizanishvili, Odikadze, Menteshashvili. Subs: Makaridze, Salukvadze, Siradze, McHedlidze, Asatiani, Mchedildze.
Rep of Ireland: Given, Finnan, Kilbane, O'Shea, Dunne, Whelan, McGeady, Steven Reid, Doyle, Keane, Hunt. Subs: Kiely, Andy Reid, Miller, McShane, Delaney, Keogh, Murphy.