Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given delighted to qualify for Euro 2012 in front of home crowd

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given is delighted to have qualified for next summer’s Euro 2012 championships after they drew 1-1 against Estonia on Tuesday night to secure a 5-1 aggregate victory in their play-off clash.

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Hungary £26.00

Draw £32.00

Ireland £25.00

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Hungary £29.00

Draw £32.00

Ireland £25.00

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Returns:

Hungary £28.00

Draw £32.50

Ireland £25.00

Bet: £5 £10 £20 £50 £100

Returns:

Hungary £29.00

Draw £33.00

Ireland £24.00

Bet: £5 £10 £20 £50 £100

Returns:

Hungary £28.50

Draw £31.00

Ireland £23.50

Giovanni Trapattoni’s side failed to qualify for last year’s World Cup in South Africa after a Thierry Henry handball in that play-off game notoriously led to France’s participation in the tournament.

Whilst Given has admitted the World Cup is the "pinnacle", the 35-year-old is delighted to help his nation qualify for the European Championships for the first time since 1988, and to have done it in front of a home crowd in Dublin.

"Obviously, the World Cup is the pinnacle, but to get to the European Championship is the next best thing, and to do it in Dublin as well," said Given to reporters.

"We did it in Iran the last time and there were maybe 100 fans there and we were being pelted by their home support, 99,000 Iranians.

"But to do it and to get a lap of honour at the end and see the reception from the fans, that was very special. It's nights like that which leave you with great memories.

"For me personally, my son was mascot tonight, and that's extra special as well. He was buzzing at getting his green jersey and I am really happy he was here to see it as well."

The clash on Tuesday saw Given win his 120^th cap for the Republic of Ireland, surpassing fellow stopper Pat Jennings on 119, but the former Newcastle and Manchester City man will not remember his personal performance too fondly after he conceded from distance against Estonia.

"Not really [was it the best night of his international career], because I let a bad goal in," he added.

"It hasn't actually sunk in yet. The feeling in Paris a couple of years ago was demoralising and we should be euphoric at the minute, but it just hasn't sunk in yet."