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Rugby Union

O'Gara winning try sparks controversy

24/08/2007

Irish fly-half Ronan O'Gara scored a controversial late try as Ireland edged past Italy 23-20 at Ravenhill.

It had looked as if Italian centre Matteo Pratichetti had won the game for the Italians in injury time, but O'Gara's winning try, to the dismay of the visitors, was awarded by the video referee.

Ireland started their first game at Ravenhill for 53 years strongly with Andrew Trimble scoring their first try. It followed an O'Gara penalty in the sixth minute.

Italy pulled the score back to level in the 21st minute with a superb drop-goal from fullback David Bortolussi.

Despite the domination of the Irish in early parts of the first half, it was the Italians who finished the half the stronger of the two teams with Troncon scoring a try and Bortolussi converting giving them a 13-10 lead at half time.

Ireland's frustration showed as they tried to break down the Italian defence in the second half. Hickie had the best chance but could not get past Kaine Robertson.

The Irish persistence paid off as in the 74th minute O'Gara kicked over a long range drop to regain the lead.

Italy's second try came in injury to the anger of full back Geordan Murphy who felt that scorer Pratichetti had obstructed him. Referee Nigel Owens allowed the try and subsequent conversions to stand.

Just as you thought it could not get anymore nail biting, O'Gara scored the winning try with the last attack of the game.