Historic clash brought back Croker memories for ‘emotional’ Robbie

SATURDAY’S first ever soccer match at Croke Park was a bittersweet occasion for Robbie Keane.

“It was an emotional day for me because it was my Dad’s anniversary,” the Irish captain revealed. “At the same time it was a great thing to lead the team out at Croke Park on such a great occasion. It was something I’ll never forget.”

On what was the fourth anniversary of his father Robert’s passing, Keane couldn’t help but think of a previous visit to the ground, as a young boy in the company of his dad.