New Zealand's Baby Blacks beaten by Georgia in shock U20 result

New Zealand's Baby Blacks beaten by Georgia in shock U20 result

It is the first time in history that Georgia have beaten New Zealand at U20 level, ending a run of four previous defeats against the junior All Blacks.

The hosts, coached by Vito Kolelishvili, produced four tries in a dramatic contest at the Kharebi Arena, including a last-minute winner to seal a famous victory on home soil.

New Zealand made the brighter start and struck first through a converted try from a five-metre lineout move, punishing early Georgian errors and penalties.

Georgia responded quickly when Mikheil Shioshvili powered over from close range after a quick tap penalty, with Temur Dzodzuashvili adding the conversion to level the scores at 7-7 at half-time.

The Junior All Blacks regained control early in the second half and briefly looked to be pulling away, scoring twice through sharp counter-attacking play and sustained pressure to build a 19-12 lead.

However, Georgia refused to go away, with captain Luka Narcia narrowing the gap before Irakli Kolbaia snatched a dramatic late winner in the final minute after a powerful rolling maul and a sharp break from the base of the ruck.

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