Australia, England’s likely quarter-final opponents, were made to work hard for their final Pool D match against Georgia in Shizuoka.
They scored four tries and ran out 27-8 winners, but lost Kurtley Beale to injury after a blow to the head.
Australia will finish second in Pool B if Wales beat Uruguay on Sunday.
Georgia defended with heart and aggression in windy and wet conditions in Shizuoka. Australia’s first try came from Nic White, the scrum-half, after 23 minutes and they had to wait until deep into the second half for Marika Koroibete to score a fine second.
Georgia scored a superb try via Alexander Todua, but Australia had the last laugh, with Jack Dempsey going over after a drive from the lineout and Will Genia securing a bonus point.
