SUPER-stopper Shay Given was delighted to be "in the right place at the right time" after shutting out Partizan Belgrade on Wednesday night.

Nobby Solano bagged the only goal of the game seven minutes before the half time break, but it was the Irishman who was the toast of Tyneside after performing heroics to keep the home side out.

Given pulled off a string of superb saves, including a breathtaking point blank block to deny Iliev deep into stoppage time.

"I'm delighted to keep a clean sheet, we'd have taken 1-0 before the game so we're obviously happy with theclean sheet and the away goal," said Given.

"I thought the lad was odds on to score at the end there, but thankfully I was in the right place at the right time and managed to keep the ball out.

"It was a difficult game for us. They were a good side and they caused us a few problems, and we tired a bit towards the end because it was very humid out there.

"As I said we're very happy with the result, but we do know that tie is not over yet and we have to finish the job off at St. James' Park."