The 2016 runners-up are on the brink of an early exit from Pool B at the tournament in Georgia, as Scotland earned a narrow 32-28 triumph.

Scotland ran in five tries as they recovered from losing their opening match to New Zealand, with Robbie Nairn, Darcy Graham, Ross McCann, Fraser Renwick and Connor Eastgate all going over.

Jack Kelly, who scored twice, and Jack Stafford's efforts proved to be in vain for the Irish, who lost last year's final to England.

Elsewhere in Pool B, New Zealand once again showed ominous form as they comfortably dispatched Italy 68-26 at the same venue.

New Zealand crossed over eight times, with Caleb Clarke the star performer as he scored twice.

Italy remain in contention to progress to the next round by virtue of their opening win over Ireland.

Australia also secured their second victory of the event as they battled to a 33-26 success against Samoa in Pool A at the Avchala Stadium in Tblisi.

England then continued their title defence with a win over Wales in an entertaining encounter, prevailing by virtue of a 34-22 scoreline.

In Pool C, South Africa kept their unbeaten record in tact, following up from their draw with France, by beating the host nation 38-14 in the Georgian capital.

France have also not yet succumbed to defeat as they won the day's opening match 26-25 over Argentina.