Image:James Collins: His hat-trick helped Ireland recover from falling a goal behind
James Collins bagged a hat-trick as Republic of Ireland's U21s claimed a thumping 4-1 win over Liechtenstein on Tuesday.
King's men crush Liechtenstein
James Collins bagged a hat-trick as Republic of Ireland's U21s claimed a thumping 4-1 win over Liechtenstein on Tuesday.
A comprehensive success means the Irish remain well-placed in their bid to secure qualification for the 2013 European U21 Championships.
The efforts of Shrewsbury striker Collins helped Ireland bounce back from falling a goal behind to pick up a morale-boosting success.
Noel King's side now sit three points adrift of Group Seven leaders Turkey with a game in hand.
Simon Pirker gave the home team a 14th-minute lead in midweek, but it lasted only 12 minutes as Manchester United winger Robbie Brady, who has impressed on loan at Hull City this season, delivered a near-post corner which was headed home by Collins.
Greg Cunningham delivered the cross for the second goal and Collins, who played an instrumental role in the Shrews' giant-killing run in this season's Carling Cup, completed his hat-trick in the 34th minute.
Everton defender Shane Duffy rounded off the scoring shortly before half-time with a powerful header and, though there was no addition to the score in the second period, the Republic were able to celebrate a comfortable win.