Ireland began their World Cup campaign with a comfortable 22-10 win over the USA.

Leinster fly-half Jonathan Sexton missed a couple of early penalties, before scoring on his third attempt after 15 minutes to give Ireland the lead.

Neither side scored again until Ireland's Tommy Bowe showed quick feet in the final minute of the first half to give Ireland the try, before Sexton's conversion gave them a 10-point lead.

The USA put their first points on the board after 50 minutes, thanks to James Paterson's penalty. However, Ireland responded almost immediately through Rory Best's try.

Bowe scored his second try of the game just four minutes later, allowing Ronan O'Gara to extend their lead to 19.

Paul Emerick's last minute interception led to a consolation try and conversion scored again by James Paterson.

Ireland will next face Australia on Saturday, September 17 in Auckland.