Shay Given expressed his delight after the Republic of Ireland claimed a Euro 2012 play-off spot after a 2-1 victory over Armenia last night.
It was a dramatic night at the Aviva Stadium as both team had players sent-off and Armenia pushed Ireland all the way.
The Lifford man said: “We’re delighted obviously. It was a nervy night but you also have to enjoy nights like tonight.
“We’re in the play-off next month and we’re looking forward to that. There was a great atmosphere here tonight and we are delighted with the win.”
Ireland needed a bit of luck along the way as Armenia keeper Roman Berezovsky was sent-off for handling outside his box when replays showed it struck his chest.
Given believes that Ireland deserved that bit of luck having been on the end of wrong decisions in the past.
“I was a long way off but it looked like a handball to me,’ he said.
“Somebody was saying it hit him in the chest but maybe we are due a bit of luck. We got a little bit tonight and scored a couple of goals.
“We are just happy. Sometimes you just have got to enjoy it. We enjoyed the victory. We enjoyed getting 21 points in the group. It’s been a long campaign and hopefully we can finish it off next month.”
Given admitted that he was frustrated to see the end of Ireland’s run of eight clean sheets and his own role in the goal.
He said: “I should have done better with the goal. I seen it late and then I dived backwards and couldn’t get enough on it to get it around the post. It hasn’t cost us anything and that’s the most important thing.
“We move on to the next game. We are looking forward to the draw and see who we are going to get.”
When asked about who he would like to draw on Thursday, Given quipped: “Somebody easy!”
“Ah nah, we’ll just take it on the chin. Whoever we play will know they are in for a very tough game when they come here and we’ll give them a tough game at their home place as well. Please God, we can get across the line this time and get through the play-offs.”
Tags: