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Robinson nets brace as Stephen Kenny seals first competitive win

Stephen Kenny has his first competitive win as Republic of Ireland manager.  They've beaten Azer...



Robinson nets brace as Stephen...
Soccer

Robinson nets brace as Stephen Kenny seals first competitive win

Stephen Kenny has his first competitive win as Republic of Ireland manager. 

They've beaten Azerbaijan 3-0 in Baku in their World Cup qualifier.

Although Ireland can't qualify, the result will come as a boost for Kenny, who is only contracted with the FAI until the summer of 2022.

Callum Robinson, who has had an eventful week, found the back of the net twice in the first half for the visitors.

It took West Brom striker Robinson just seven minutes to find the back of the net for his first goal.

James McClean and Matt Doherty did well in the build-up with clever touches before McClean provided a clean pass to Robinson who took a shot from 20 yards out to score a really nice goal.

Ireland then quite worryingly switched off with Azerbaijan having a number of shots.

The lack of creativity in midfield was clear to be seen as Kenny's side could do little going forward.

Then in the 39th minute, Robinson got his second.

Daryl Horgan sent it into Robinson on the edge of the box and the 26-year-old took a shot with his right foot.

After a lengthy VAR check the goal stood and although it took a slight deflection Robinson claimed it and Kenny's side went in 2-0 up at the break.

Then in the second half Ireland made a number of chances but just couldn't seem to put the game to bed.

There were also a number of nervy moments with goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu having to make a number of saves.

In the 80th minute Garayev took a shot from distance and it looked like he was going to smash one home before Bazunu got a hand to it to tip it onto the crossbar before it came back out.

Chiedozie Ogbene then got the third in injury time from a Josh Cullen free-kick.

It was his first senior goal for his country, on his competitive debut and meant it finished up 3-0 with Kenny finally having a good night as Ireland boss.

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Azerbaijan Callum Robinson Republic Of Ireland Stephen Kenny