Spurs star Pav keeps Russia on the march

TOTTENHAM striker Roman Pavlyuchenko hit a hat-trick as Russia beat Armenia 3-1 in Ireland’s Euro 2012 qualifying Group B.

Dick Advocaat’s side remain level on points with the Republic and Slovakia.

Russia’s result was more convincing than their performance. Marcos Pizelli put the visitors ahead after 25 minutes before Pavlyuchenko took centre stage, the Spurs striker equalising almost immediately with a volley before making it 2-1 from close range on the hour mark and adding another with a 73rd-minute penalty.