It was an emotional night for Keating.
Ruairi Keating scored a hat-trick against Sligo Rovers and dedicated it to his late father who was tragically killed in a car crash on the way to watch his son play.
Ciaran Keating, who is also the brother of Boyzone singer Ronan Keating, was on his way to watch Cork lay Sligo when two cars collided in a tragic accident back in July.
Facing the same opposition as that he was that night when he learnt of his father’s death, Ruairi honoured his name in the best way imaginable by netting a hat-trick against Sligo.
The first goal came just after 20 minutes when Cork were gifted a penalty, which, despite al of the pressure and emotion, Keating was able to finish off cooly.
Shortly after the striker was the fastest to react from a quick throw in and managed to double his side’s lead, and bag his 11th goal of the season in the progress.
A hat-trick and a hero's reception from the Shed after the game.
Incredible tonight, Ruairí Keating 💚#CCFC84 pic.twitter.com/LNZEzoTXsN
— Cork City FC (@CorkCityFC) September 1, 2023
His 12th goal, and third of the night, came on the 74th minute, and is the third game in a row that the sharp shooter has found the back of the net.
When the full time whistle went, the Cork City team escorted Keating off the pitch and he was greeted by rapturous applause from the fans.
This victory helps Cork in their fight against relegation as they win a vital three points in their bid to stay in the top division.
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