Jon Walters's second-half goal gave the Republic of Ireland a slender 1-0 victory over Georgia this evening as they extended their lead over Scotland in Group D of Euro 2016 qualifying to four points.

Jonathan Walters of the Republic of Ireland (14) celebrates with Shane Long (9) as he scores their first goal during the UEFA EURO 2016 Group D qualifying match between Republic of Ireland and Georgia at Aviva Stadium on September 7, 2015 in Dublin, Irela © Getty Images

Ireland were presented with the game's first chance after seven minutes, but Robbie Keane couldn't keep his effort down after neat interplay between Wes Hoolahan and Walters.

Five minutes later, Levan Mchedlidze escaped the attentions of the home defence but sent a weak effort into the hands of Shay Given.

Tornike Okriashvili then attempted an overhead kick which Given was relieved to see trickle wide.

Seamus Coleman - who was recalled to the side at the expense of Cyrus Christie - thundered a volley towards the top corner in the 38th minute, but Nukri Revishvili batted away the strike.

Republic of Ireland's midfielder James McCarthy (L) vies with Georgia's midfielder Tornike Okriashvili during the Euro 2016 qualifying group D football match between Republic of Ireland and Georgia at Aviva Stadium in Dublin on September 7, 2015 © Getty Images

The hosts struggled to find any rhythm in the second half, despite the introduction of Shane Long for Keane at the interval, and their first shot of note in the second period came the way of Jeff Hendrick, who forced a save from Revishvili in the 62nd minute.

Hendrick was instrumental in the winner a few minutes later, as he escaped two challenges before teeing up Walters, who bundled the ball home from close range.

Long almost sealed the victory with 10 minutes left, but a Georgian defender nipped in front of the forward as he looked poised to turn home James McClean's cross.