Roman Pavlyuchenko hit a hat-trick as Russia beat Armenia 3-1 tonight in Euro 2012 qualifying Group B.
Dick Advocaat's Russia started the day level on 10 points with the Republic of Ireland and Slovakia, and collected a further three points after a result which was more convincing than the performance.
Marcos Pizelli put the visitors ahead after 25 minutes before Pavlyuchenko took centre stage, the Tottenham striker equalising almost immediately with a volley before making it 2-1 from close range on the hour mark and adding another with a 73rd-minute penalty.
