Fiji held the advantage at the half time interval of another pulsating encounter in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup thanks to two tries in the opening 13 minutes.
With the Sims brothers driving the Fijian pack forward at every opportunity it took just nine minutes for their backs to take advantage with Akuila Uate crossing in the right corner.
Kevin Naiqama scored after a James Storer kick rebounded into Fijian arms and then skipper Petero Civoniceva was held up as Ireland were on the back foot.
But with some possession and territory going the Irish way Tyrone McCarthy ploughed over for a try in a real passionate affair.
Uate had a try claim ruled out for a forward pass and then Eloni Vunakece was shown a yellow card, the half finishing with a Wes Naiqama penalty goal a minute before the break.
