SHANE LONG WAS unsurprisingly in jubilant mood after scoring the key goal in Ireland’s 1-0 win over Germany.

The striker praised his teammates after the Boys in Green earned an unlikely victory over the reigning world champions.

“It was a big effort,” he told RTÉ. “We dropped in and tried to frustrate them.

“When I came on, there were a few tired legs and the gaffer said try and test them in behind and put them under pressure. Luckily the ball came through to me [for the goal] and it was nice to finish it off.”

The Tipperary native also praised substitute goalkeeper Darren Randolph, who provided an assist for his goal, which he acknowledged was a moment to savour.

“He made some great saves and was always confident to kick it long, and myself and Jonny Walters caused them problems when he did.

“I had to hit it early and hit it hard to get it past them. (Manuel Neuer is) one of the best goalkeepers in the world, which it makes it that bit more special.”

As for Sunday’s game with Poland, in which Ireland need a high-scoring draw at the very least to qualify?

“The last trip is massive. But to beat the world champions at home and go to Poland with everything to play for, it’s nice to have it back in our own hands again and we want to take full advantage.”

And asked if it was the best moment of his career, Long added:

“It definitely is up there. You can see the atmosphere. The place is going mad and to even be a part of tonight was amazing, but to get the winning goal is phenomenal.”

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