Steve Staunton was upbeat after the Croke Park qualifier

"The players did the country proud - we didn't get the rub of the green in the second half and I'm disappointed not to win," he said.

"There were great performances all round and we were just unlucky we didn't score that goal.

"I was pleased with the commitment and the way we got at the Germans."

Staunton praised man-of-the-match Andy Reid and he was in a positive mood after the game.

"Everyone in the back four was magnificent as well as Lee Carsley and Andy Reid," he added.

"We are a lot stronger that we were when I took over.

"With the likes of young Andy Keogh coming in and Joey O'Brien we're building up a nice squad.

"I have learn't how to cope with injuries and it will be nice when we get back to a full compliment.

"We are pleased with the way things are going but Wednesday night is going to be tough as Cyprus are a good side."

A victory over the Cypriots in Dublin may not be enough to keep the Republic's qualification hopes alive.

If the Czech Republic claim a point against the already qualified Germans on the same night then they will secure the second and final qualifying spot from Group D.