Ireland crush Fiji 52-17 in eight-try dominance at Aviva

Ireland 52-17 Fiji, Aviva Stadium

Ireland delivered a commanding performance against Fiji at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, running in eight tries to secure a 52-17 victory.

The win marked a significant improvement in discipline and execution for the Six Nations champions, who struggled in their previous matches against New Zealand and Argentina.

The hosts wasted no time asserting their dominance, scoring their first try through Caelan Doris following a precise attacking line-out.

Hooker Gus McCarthy, making his debut, was instrumental in the early stages, assisting Doris’s try with a clever inside pass. McCarthy later added a try of his own, capping an impressive debut performance.

Despite an early yellow card for young flyhalf Sam Prendergast, Ireland’s defense held firm during the 10-minute period with 14 men. McCarthy's brilliance continued as he set up Josh van der Flier for a second try, showcasing the team’s resilience.

Ireland capitalized on Fiji's lack of discipline, with the visitors conceding 11 penalties in the first half alone. Scrumhalf Craig Casey and winger Mack Hansen crossed the line before halftime, giving Ireland a commanding 28-3 lead at the break.

The second half saw more attacking flair from Ireland. Hansen added his second try, while Bundee Aki and Ronan Kelleher also got on the scoresheet. McCarthy’s all-round display included a late try and a stint at flanker, highlighting Ireland’s depth in the hooker position.

Fiji managed two consolation tries through Kitione Salawa and 18-year-old Setareki Turagacoke, but their persistent fouling continued to hurt them.

Turagacoke’s yellow card paved the way for Ireland to surpass the 50-point mark with Hansen’s second try sealing the comprehensive victory.

Ireland captain Caelan Doris praised his team’s improved discipline and execution but emphasized the need for further refinement ahead of their final Autumn Nations Series match against an in-form Australia next weekend.

Team line up:

Ireland: Jamie Osborne; Mack Hansen, Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki, Jacob Stockdale; Sam Prendergast, Craig Casey; Andrew Porter, Gus McCarthy, Finlay Bealham; Joe McCarthy, Tadhg Beirne; Cormac Izuchukwu, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris (capt).

Reserves: Rob Herring, Tom O'Toole, Thomas Clarkson, Iain Henderson, Cian Prendergast, Conor Murray, Ciaran Frawley, Stuart McCloskey.

Fiji: Vuate Karawalevu; Jiuta Wainiqolo, Wausea Nayacalevu (co-capt), Joshua Tuisova, Ponipate Loganimasi; Caleb Muntz, Frank Lomani; Eroni Mawi, Tevita Ikanivere (co-capt), Luke Tagi; Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanavanua; Ratu Meli Derenalagi, Kitone Salawa, Elia Canakaivata.

Reserves: Sam Matavesi, Haereiti Hetet, Samu Tawake, Setareki Turagacoke, Albert Tuisue, Peni Matawalu, Vilmoni Botitu, Sireli Maqal.