Italy earn 3-1 win over 10-man Georgia

TBILISI, Oct 11 (Reuters) Italy eventually overpowered Georgia 3-1 in a Euro 2008 qualifier today to put their campaign firmly on track but they took charge only after the hosts were reduced to 10 men early in the second half.

The world champions had struggled to break down an inspired Georgian defence until Jaba Kankava was sent off by English referee Mike Riley 15 minutes after halftime for a second yellow card.

Juventus midfielder Mauro Camoranesi headed the visitors into a 2-1 lead within a minute of the red card after a fine cross from Antonio Di Natale and Simone Perrota added a third from close range shortly afterwards.

Daniele De Rossi had opened the scoring in the 16th minute when his low drive from 25 metres completely fooled Georgia keeper Giorgi Lomaia.

Giorgi Shashiashvili equalised for the home side eight minutes later, beating Gianluigi Buffon with a great curving shot into the top corner from just inside the penalty box.

After a slow start when they managed only one point from their opening two games in Group B, the Italians now have seven points from four following a 2-0 victory over Ukraine last Saturday.

REUTERS DH RAI0142