Flying Irish wing Keith Earls scores the first of his two tries during Ireland's convincing 36-6 win over Italy in the final pool game of the 2011 Rugby World Cup competition played at the Otago Stadium in Dunedin this evening.
A capacity crowd of 27,500, mainly Irish, fans enjoyed a thrilling game of open running rugby as the Irish came out all guns blazing in the second half to secure the top place in Pool C and set up a quarter final against Wales next weekend. Outstanding performances from veteran players Brian O'Driscoll and Ronan O'Gara laid the pathway to the emphatic win as the Irish forward pack took control with rampaging runs leaving Italian defenders in their wake.
Scroll down for more photos from the game and the fans...
Some fans enjoying the atmosphere at the magnificent Otago Stadium.
Action from on the field.
Check out the official Rugby World Cup website for more details including results, match schedules and ticketing information...