RWC: Georgia rate an eight out of 10

Beka Tsiklauri scored Georgia's only try against the All Blacks. Photo / AP

For two-thirds of the match, Georgia took the All Blacks to a place few thought they were capable of.

Their up-and-in defence and spot tackling was often terrific, their heart the same. The final scoreline was a touch unfair on them.

The out-of-sync All Blacks will have bruises ... and mental scars. The Georgian effort would rate a solid eight out of 10.

The best of Georgia

Mamuka Gorgodze

Couldn't last the distance this time but the strongman's presence was evident. Another strange man-of-the-match winner, based on reputation and sentiment no doubt, but he produced a memorable smile and reaction of surprise when it was announced.

Beka Tsiklauri

He'll never forget his kick-and-grab try, and nor will we. Even celebrated before the tryline. Defensively ... well, it wasn't quite the same.

Davit Kacharava

The veteran centre led a magnificent defensive effort for much of the game, with a fair few comrades backing him up.

Giorgi Chkhaidze

The lock, who moved to No 8, was prominent and combative. Hit Conrad Smith with a beauty, although then got bumped off by Jerome Kaino.

Lasha Malaguradze

Landed a long goal but his spot tackle on the usually-elusive Ben Smith sticks most firmly in the memory and typified Georgia's courage.

The not-so-good

Simon Maisuradze

The replacement hooker made two poor lineout throws when his fellow forwards were ready to rumble.