Scunthorpe United striker Andy Keogh struck twice today to help the Ireland under-21s to a 2-1 win over Azerbaijan in their European Championship preliminary round first leg.

Don Givens' side went a goal down in Baku after Murad Aghakishiyev found the net in the 26th minute and were trailing at the break.

However, Ireland fought back on a terrible pitch and Keogh equalised after 58 minutes before scoring the winner two minutes from time.

The result was soured slightly by the fact that UCD goalkeeper Darren Quigley was sent-off with moments remaining.

The return leg will be played in Kilkenny's Buckley Park next Thursday at 7.30 p.m.

Ireland starting team: Darren Quigley (U.C.D), Kevin Foley (Luton Town), Richard Keogh (Bristol City), Alex Bruce (Birmingham City), Marcos Painter (Birmingham City), Paul Keegan (Drogheda United), Willo Flood (Manchester City), Michael Timlin (Fulham), Roy O'Donovan (Cork City), Andy Keogh (Scunthorpe), Aiden McGeady (Celtic)