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Keane was given a standing ovation as he led United onto the pitch and although his performance was subdued prior to his substitution just before the hour there was no doubting the crowd's adoration for him.
At the final whistle a large swathe of the attendance converged upon Keane, causing scenes of hysteria as he met his hometown fans.
Manchester United won the game in the 90th minute through Kenny Cooper's strike but they were given a run for their money by a Cobh side driven on by the sight of their illustrious opponents.
Mads Timm had given United a first-half lead which was equalised by Robert Brosnan four minutes before the break. Cobh did their best in the second half but, even allowing for Cooper's last minute winner, there was no doubt the night belonged to Keane.
Keane played for Cobh Ramblers after leaving his boyhood side Rockmount FC. Keane took the offer of a contract at Cobh in order to gain a place on the FAS course, which enabled him to be viewed by clubs from England. It was from this that Keane was noticed by Brian Clough at Nottingham Forest.