Three David Humphrey's penalties had Ireland nine points up after 19 minutes, their most threatening try opportunity in that time coming from the lightening Brian O'Driscoll. Then at the start of the second quarter a break from Girvan Dempsey ended with a try under the posts from Shane Horgan, back in the side after a lengthy injury absence. Humphreys knocked over the conversion and Ireland were on their way. Keith wood was next up for a try. Crashing through after Romania had kicked away possession. Humphreys added the easy conversion and tagged on ahis third penalty in the 37th minute to give Ireland a 26 point interval lead.

They conceded 10 points at the start of the second half, scored thtree tries, two from Denis Hickie and one from Victor Costello and if Romania had the final say when Iulian Andrei converted Vaentin Maftei's 79th minute try, Ireland can be well satisfied with their opening salvo in this World Cup.