Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given feels the players have proven themselves after shaking off  'never-ending criticism'.

Steve Staunton heads into the summer with his side still in the picture for a place in next summer's European Championship finals.

Ireland last night completed mission improbable by taking the six points they required with a 1-0 win over Slovakia at Croke Park to follow on from Saturday's victory over Wales by the same scoreline.

After last October's 5-2 debacle in Cyprus, and last month's great escape in San Marino, the pressure was on Staunton and his players to deliver.

On the back of a momentous five days in the life of 38-year-old Staunton, he can perhaps feel a little smug today having poked a finger in the eye of the detractors.

"It was unfair all the criticism was on Steve, it should have been on the players as well," remarked Given.

"It does seem as if the criticism has been never-ending. But you guys (media) and everybody else can write what you want.

"It is all about us doing a professional job and getting the right result. We just have to focus on what we need to do personally and professionally.

"We said before these two games that we needed six points, and we have managed to get them. Now we are obviously looking forward to September.

"It's a long wait, but at least we've finished (this season) on a high, which was the important thing. We're happy because we've taken six points in five days, and I'm sure the fans have gone home happy as well."

It was a night to remember for Given, captaining the side for the first time and winning his 80th cap to equal Packie Bonner's record for a Republic goalkeeper.

The Newcastle number one made a couple of fine saves to ensure the Republic came away with the points, and a fourth successive group win, so dispelling the negativity.

Ireland had to put on a show to convince the doubters, although the 30-year-old added: "Every time you pull on an Irish jersey you have to prove yourself.

"It's an international team, so you have to go out and show you are good enough to play in an international team.

"But we're looking good in the group now. We're on a roll, and although I wouldn't say we've breathing space, it was nice to get the six points.

"We've still a lot of hard work to do in the group, but it's given us a good chance of qualification.

"The whole team dug deep and performed well, with the four lads in front of me absolutely brilliant, every single one of them."

Manchester City centre-back Richard Dunne earned the man-of-the- match award, but it could quite easily have gone to Damien Duff.

Playing in his favoured left-wing position, Given's Newcastle team-mate Duff sparkled, and is finally turning around an injury-hit season to forget following last summer's move from Chelsea.

"It was one of his best performances for some time, but we know what he is all about," remarked Given.

"On Saturday (v Wales) he looked good as well. He is finding his form again. Duffer is getting back to his best."    PA