Robbie Keane wasted no time reminding the Premier League why he is one of the competition’s best-ever pure scorers.
Keane, who is currently on loan from LA Galaxy, made the most of his first EPL start with Aston Villa on Saturday against Wolverhampton Wanderers, scoring twice in the second half to propel the Birmingham side to a 3-2 comeback victory over the club where he began his career.
The Irishman started and played 90 minutes before being substituted in stoppage time, and rescued the Villans from a 2-1 deficit with a pair of beautifully struck goals in the 51st and 84th minutes.
Keane brought Aston Villa level just after halftime with a powerful half volley that Wolves goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey couldn’t keep out of the back of the net. Ciaran Clark headed the ball into the Keane’s path just outside the 18-yard box, allowing the LA striker to swivel and send a drive inside the far post.
But the real highlight came six minutes from time when Keane latched onto a clearance at the top of the penalty area, took a touch and unleashed an absolute screamer off the underside of the bar that gave the away side a thrilling three points. The former Molineux prodigy didn’t celebrate either of his goals, acknowledging his upbringing at the club.
Aston Villa is Keane’s sixth EPL stop of his career following previous stints at Coventry City, Leeds, Tottenham, Liverpool and West Ham. He is on loan with club for six weeks and will return to LA for preseason preparations as the Galaxy look to defend their 2011 MLS Cup triumph.
