Republic of Ireland eased to a 5-0 friendly victory over Grenada in Murcia, with debutant Jack Moylan hitting a hat-trick and Thomas Cannon adding two goals. All five strikes came after half-time as a much-changed side, featuring seven first caps, produced a dominant second period against Grenada in Spain.

Republic of Ireland attempted 37 shots, their highest total in any game measured by Opta since June 2012. Moylan alone produced 10 attempts, also a national record in that period, underlining how central Moylan was to the attack as Grenada tired after the interval.

Moylan’s treble arrived after Cannon struck twice early in the second half, with Moylan finally securing the match ball as Grenada’s defence opened up. Cannon’s brace calmed the team, before Moylan punished further spaces and ensured Republic of Ireland closed out a convincing result.

The Lincoln City forward entered Irish history in several ways. Moylan became the first Lincoln City player to appear for Republic of Ireland since Arthur Fitzsimons faced Czechoslovakia in May 1959, and only the second player to score a debut hat-trick for Republic of Ireland after David Kelly’s feat against Israel in November 1987.

Moylan spoke about the emotions around the achievement and did not hide the sense of disbelief. “It’s the best feeling in the world. I can’t really describe it,” said Moylan. “I don’t think it’s set in yet. It’s the stuff you dream of; I just can’t believe it.”

The fixture also brought a landmark for squad depth. Seven players gained first caps for Republic of Ireland: Aidomo Emakhu, Moylan, Millenic Alli, Will Ferry, Tayo Adaramola, Rory Finneran and Josh Keeley. It was the highest number of debutants in one Irish game since May 2007, when 11 players appeared for the first time against Ecuador.

Moylan explained how sharing the night with close supporters added to the significance. “My four best mates are here and my family is in the crowd. It’s great me for, but for my mates who have stuck by me my whole career, and my family who have done everything for me, it’s day like this you celebrate with them. I want this feeling for the rest of career. To play for your country is the greatest honour any Irishman could have. It means the world to me and if I could get a 100 more I would.”

Reflecting on the match itself, Moylan highlighted both conditions and attitude. “The pitch was a bit dry and they were well up for it. I suppose it shows we had a bit of quality and a bit of calm to keep our heads. We came out in the second half and Tom got us a goal early on, which settled everyone’s nerves a little bit. We showed some professionalism and showed some respect; I thought we were really good.”

The result in Spain delivered a clear win, several personal milestones and rare statistics for Republic of Ireland. Moylan’s finishing, Cannon’s contribution and the number of new caps gave the friendly extra meaning, while the performance indicated useful depth and composure within the squad for future international fixtures.