Dublin: Martin O'Neill's reign as Ireland manager got off to a strong start with a 3-0 victory over Latvia in Dublin on Friday, with Robbie Keane setting the team on its way with his 62nd international goal.
Aiden McGeady and Shane Long scored second-half goals to complete a convincing win for O'Neill, whose appointment of former captain Roy Keane as his assistant has helped spark renewed interest in the national side.
Both O'Neill and Keane received a warm welcome before kickoff from fans who had grown despondent with the dour brand of football played under former coach Giovanni Trapattoni.
Robbie Keane put the Irish in front in the 22nd minute to extend his national scoring record in his 131st cap.
