Richard Dunne believes the Republic of Ireland are on course to qualify for the World Cup finals after a deserved draw in Sofia on Saturday night.
Dunne was on target against Bulgaria for the second time in the campaign to keep them unbeaten in competitive matches under Giovanni Trapattoni.
"The main aim was not to lose so we are pleased with the point," said Dunne.
"It was a good way to end the season and we can go into the new one full of hope about making it to the finals."
Defender Dunne's header had the Republic ahead for five minutes in the first half before Bulgarian midfielder Dimitar Telkiyski equalised.
"Unfortunately, when we scored we sat back a bit and they got the goal quickly enough," said Dunne.
"They really needed to win so they were always going to come at us and everyone just dug in a defended really well.
"I was delighted to get the goal. John O'Shea blocked Berbatov and it was a free header."
Trapattoni was encouraged by the contributions from his emerging players.
"Tonight we saw Folan, Best and St Ledger and slowly I think we are building a great team," said the Republic manager.
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