Ryan Giggs said his farewell to international football as Wales produced their best performance in their Euro 2008 qualifying group to earn a 0-0 draw at home to the Czech Republic
The draw will do more for the Republic of Ireland's chances now in Group D, but Giggs gave everyone a lasting memory of his brilliance in a much-improved Wales second-half display.
The match ended with Giggs receiving a standing ovation having tried everything to fashion an unlikely victory.
"I'm just disappointed, with the chances we created that we just couldn't put the ball in the net," he said.
"But that's the benchmark, a great performance right from the start. Defensively we didn't give them a kick. We created chances, so that's what we need to do in the future."
Giggs produced a trademark dribble forward in the 68th minute but his resulting shot failed to beat Petr Cech.
"I should have scored," he said. "I'd done the hard work and beat a couple of players but whipped it too much really. I should have scored and put it in the corner.
"I don't think you could pick a best player today, everyone was outstanding. The Czech Republic are a very good team but we made them look ordinary at times."
A clearly moved Giggs added: "Obviously it's been emotional this week, saying goodbye to everyone.
"I've enjoyed it, it's been great and I wish the lads all the best in the future."