HIS HAT-TRICK EARNED Ireland a comfortable 3-0 win against the Faroe Islands but Robbie Keane is already targeting six points from their next two World Cup qualifiers.
The Ireland captain scored his 57th, 58th and 59th international goals on the same night he became the country’s record caps holder during what was a fairly routine victory over the minnows.
Austria defeated Sweden 2-1 in Group C’s other game mean they sit level on 11 points with Ireland and although the Swedes are a further three points back, they do have a game in hand.
In September, Ireland face both teams back-to-back in the space of four days and wins will be crucial for Ireland’s chances of making the play-off spot for next year’s finals in Brazil.
On the performance, Keane said: ”The first 25 minutes I thought we were very good. We got it down, passed it and pressed them really well. You try and get the first goal to open them up but to be fair they didn’t really open up that much.
“They kept very compact and in stages made if difficult for us. We came out better in the second half and created a few more chances. It’s been a good day.
“All we have to do is concentrate on ourselves and not worry to much about Austria or Sweden. We know what we have to do – we have to play them both. We’re still in contention and they are two games that we have to win. We’re quite capable of getting three points in them. ”
Taking over from Shay Given by winning his 126th cap was clearly a proud moment for the 32-year-old striker, and after a week of telling the media that he has several years left in him, Keane praised the spirit in the squad.
“I don’t think I’ve had to prove that (my hunger) to anyone. I’ve shown that since I was 18 so that will never change.
The two weeks we’ve been together has been good for the players. The good atmosphere depends on the results and the last three games have been fantastic. The way the lads have bonded and conducted themselves on the pitch has been great.”
Wes Hoolahan made his senior competitive start at the Aviva Stadium and shone on the night – playing a part in all three goals and showing Giovanni Trapattoni just why there have been calls to play him for so long.
“He’s a fantastic footballer,” Keane said of his team-mate. “He’s clever, he’s easy to play with and suits me perfectly. He did very well tonight and is another great addition to the squad.”
Hoolahan, who could be among a host of players to miss the trip to the US to face Spain, returned the compliment.
“It’s amazing (to play with Keane). His movement is fantastic and he’s always there looking for the ball. He showed tonight what a great player he is.”
