Rocco Vata plunders hat-trick as Ireland U21s rout San Marino

UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifier

San Marino 0-7 Republic of Ireland

Rocco Vata plundered a second-half hat-trick as the Republic of Ireland under-21s continued their European Championship qualifying campaign with a comfortable 7-0 win over San Marino.

Jim Crawford's side also saw Sinclair Armstrong get onto the scoresheet, while Andrew Moran and substitute Armstrong Oko-Flex helped themselves to goals at the San Marino Stadium in Serravalle.

The result keeps the Boys in Green second in Group A, one point behind Italy, who beat Latvia 2-0.

Ireland had beaten the Sammarinese 3-0 in the home game at Tallaght Stadium last September and went into this fixture as heavy favourites.

However, while dominant, the first half proved a frustrating one as the Irish side struggled to break down a deep-lying home outfit.

The best chances came from the numerous corners Ireland won but it wasn't until the 26th minute that they were able to prise open their opponents.

Captain Joe Hodge, impressive throughout with enterprising runs from deep, drove forward and, at the edge of the box found Moran, who like the QPR loanee will be linking up with John O'Shea senior squad for the upcoming friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland.

Moran in turn teed up Armstrong, who rifled the ball home to make it 1-0.

San Marino 0-1 Republic of Ireland

Ireland finally have made their domination count, and it's Sinclair Armstrong who rounds off a fine team move with a neat finish.