It was a record setting day for Robbie Keane.
With the start against the Faroe Islands, Keane became Ireland's all-time appearance leader with 126 bypassing former teammate Shay Given.
Keane wasn’t done there; however, as he scored three goals as Ireland defeated the Faroes 3-0 in their pivotal World Cup qualifier. The hat-trick was the LA Galaxy captain’s second at the international level and gives Keane, Ireland's all-time leading scorer, a total of 59 international goals. According to the Irish FA, Keane is now fifth all-time among European goalscorers and 15th in the world.
The Irish now find themselves in third place in UEFA Group C level on points with second place Austria, but behind on goal difference. Ireland have four qualifying matches remaining as they look to earn that vital second place finish, which will place them in a playoff for a spot in the 2013 World Cup.
Ireland wraps up the international period on June 12 against defending World Cup champion Spain in New York at Yankee Stadium.
