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Robbie Keane said he relished returning home to Dublin after grabbing the winner against St Patrick's Athletic in our second pre-season friendly on Thursday night.

Robbie Keane said he relished returning home to Dublin after grabbing the winner against St Patrick's Athletic in our second pre-season friendly on Thursday night.

Skipper on the night Robbie strolled onto Danny Murphy's inch-perfect pass to stroke home what turned out to be the only goal of the game just before half-time in front of a packed Richmond Park.

It might have been more for Robbie, Darren Bent, Adel Taarabt and Steed Malbranque but for keeper Barry Ryan in the first half and his second half replacement Brendan Clarke as we dominated from start to finish.

Younes Kaboul and Gareth Bale made their debuts while Didier Zokora, Michael Dawson and Lee Barnard all appeared for the first time in pre-season.

But the night really belonged to Robbie - born just down the road from Richmond Park in Tallaght.

"It was great to come back to Dublin and play a game," reflected Robbie. "The last time I was here for a club match was a long time ago and this was a good test for the lads.

"It was only our second pre-season game and we've only been back in pre-season training for 10 days, whereas St Pats are halfway through their season. That made for a real test for us and it was an enjoyable game. St Pats played well, played some good football and I can see why they are at the top of the eircom League.

"Of course, it's always nice to score but the most important thing is the fitness of the players. I played 90 minutes again after doing the same at Stevenage and with every game I feel better.

"It's gone well so far, I feel refreshed and I can't wait for the start of the season."

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