Mick McCarthy's winning start to his second spell in charge of the Republic of Ireland continued as Conor Hourihane's free-kick earned them a 1-0 Euro 2020 qualifying win over Georgia.

Aston Villa midfielder Hourihane's exquisite effort – Ireland's first goal on home soil in four matches – ensured McCarthy's side made it two wins from two in the campaign.

Hourihane's maiden international goal was the least Ireland deserved on McCarthy's Dublin return, with Jeff Hendrick having an effort disallowed for offside in the second half - though they were ultimately fortunate to survive when Jaba Kankava's late effort from range struck a post. 

The victory lifted Ireland onto six points from its opening two Group D fixtures, and it sits top, ahead of favourite Switzerland after it drew 3-3 with Denmark.

Hourihane would have capped a bright Ireland start if not for a fine save by Giorgi Loria, while David McGoldrick drilled wide.

A reported fan protest against the FAI looked to have been avoided, but play had to be paused just after the half-hour mark when tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch.

The fans' frustration soon turned to delight – Hourihane picking out the left-hand corner with a pinpoint strike immediately after play had restarted.

Hendrick thought he had doubled Ireland's advantage 13 minutes into the second half, only for the offside flag to cut his celebrations short.

McGoldrick looked set to wrap the win up soon after, but having rounded Loria, he failed to keep the ball in play.

Ireland was almost made to pay for its profligacy with five minutes remaining, the post coming to its rescue from Kankava's wicked long-range strike.