Source: SKY_Sports
Centurion Given admits joy
// A bit of a hack but it works// The article snippet is wrapped onto a second line, even when #article-sub is emptyif( $("div#article-sub").children().length == 0 ) {$("div#article-sub").remove();} Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given has admitted his delight after becoming a centurion for his country.[LNB] The Manchester City star made his 100th international appearance in Wednesday's 0-0 draw with Montenegro as Giovanni's Trapattoni's side ended their World Cup qualifying campaign with a drab stalemate.[LNB]Ireland were already guaranteed a place in the play-offs for next summers finals in South Africa, having wrapped up second spot in Group 8, which contributed to a less-than-inspiring 90 minutes at Croke Park.[LNB]Given has acknowledged that the match was not one to remember as a spectacle, but the shot-stopper is pleased to have reached his landmark haul of caps, alongside team-mate Kevin Kilbane.[LNB]"It was (special)," Given told Sky Sports.[LNB]Controversial"It was difficult before the game because we knew we had already qualified for the play-offs, and perhaps that is why the match was not so good.[LNB]"But, personally, for myself and Kevin it was a memorable night what with making 100 caps. I'm delighted with that."[LNB]Given is eagerly anticipating the play-offs ahead of the draw on Monday and has suggested that Fifa's controversial decision regarding seeding could work in Ireland's favour. [LNB]"Next month is a different kettle of fish," he said regarding the forthcoming two-legged tie. "It is a massive game for us. We are looking forward to the draw on Monday and seeing who we get."[LNB]He added: "Whoever we get, we will deal with that. Sometimes we play better against the bigger teams. We will be underdogs whoever we get with the seeding."[LNB]
