Martin O'Neill's new era with the Republic Of Ireland got off to the best possible start after two goals from Aiden McGeady were enough to see off stern opposition from Georgia.
O'Neill, who has had to wait 10 months for his first international match, made several changes to the side since their recent friendly with Oman, replacing Shay Given, Alex Pearce, Richard Keogh, Darren Gibson, Wes Hoolahan, David Meyler, Anthony Pilkington, Kevin Doyle and Robbie Brady.
The Republic of Ireland were determined to put their failings in the 2014 World Cup campaign behind them and with a new management team in place, tonight's game was their best opportunity to prove that they were capable of going one better this time around. Georgia, on the other hand, were looking for a strong start to aid in their hunt to qualify for their first ever tournament, after their foundation in 1994. Under former Newcastle player Temur Ketsbai, this would be a chance to gauge their aspirations for this campaign.
Ireland started in the ascendency, and when a Georgian attack broke down in the 11th minute, cult hero Robbie Keane was almost played through 1 on 1, but for some excellent sweeper keeping from Georgia's Loria.
However, seven minutes later the Georgian's had their first sight of goal, with Gelashvili's effort flashing across the goalmouth only to be cleared by Glenn Whelan. Just one minute later, the tide turned in the Republic's favour.
A direct ball, flicked on in the direction of Robbie Keane, was dummied by the striker and picked up by midfielder James McCarthy. In a goal made on Merseyside, the Everton midfielder slotted the ball to an unmarked McGeady, who finished excellently with his left foot to put the Irish one up.
McGeady slots home his and Ireland's first
Georgia, however, began to feel their way into the game as soon as that goal went in. They realised that they know had to come out and attack in order to stand any chance, and in the 37th minute, they got their just rewards.
A wonderful solo effort from Okriashvili, which completely deceived Irish keeper Forde due to the sheer dip and accuracy, was worthy of equalling any game.
Just before the half time break, Georgia's goalkeeper Loria was injured in clash with Jonathan Walters, and had to be replaced by Kvaskhvadze.
At the break, the score was 1-1. Perhaps slightly harsh on Ireland, who had dominated the half bar a five minute period that the Georgian's displayed excellent offensive initiative.
Georgia came out after the break with a new-found sense of optimism and for ten minutes, looked the better side. However, Ireland once again came into their own, and forced their opposition into defensive mode again. Central to all Irish things good was goalscorer Aiden McGeady, who created and attempted to find another crack in the Georgian's stern defensive lines.
Walters had a half chance with a header on 86 minutes, but Ireland began to look devoid of ideas. That is, until the 89th minute. A wonderful piece of trickery on the edge of the area resulted in time and space, and the Everton winger fired home with his left foot to clutch victory from the jaws of just one point.
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The ful time whistle was greeted by boos from the home crowd, but content from the travelling supporters. Both will know that they have tougher tasks ahead, and will need to be sharp to qualify for France 2016.
Next up for Georgia, a trip to Scotland, while Republic of Ireland will host rank outsiders Gibraltar in Dublin.