Northern Ireland 2, Denmark 1

DAVID Healy looked embarrassed at having to explain how it felt to be the record scorer in a European Championship qualifying campaign.

Northern Ireland's predatory striker set a new best of 13 goals with a glorious winner in a dramatic victory against Denmark at rain-lashed Windsor Park.

Croatia legend Davor Suker's record had stood for 12 years before Healy came along.

It means Northern Ireland still have a slender chance in their attempt to snatch a place in Austria and Switzerland.

They need to beat Spain, who have qualified, in Las Palmas on Wednesday and hope Latvia defeat Sweden.

With Healy the impossible dream could become a reality.

However, the Fulham forward was quick to share the glory with his team-mates as the TV lights blazed after a night of raw emotion in Belfast.

It was all about winning this game rather than me setting the record, '' he said.

That goal is for the whole team. We never know when we are beaten. I'm just proud to wear this jersey and it was another phenomenal night.

We've been written off in just about every game, but we can still qualify.'' Healy notched a hat-trick in a thrilling 3-2 victory against Spain and his goal against Denmark took his tally to 25 goals in his last 31 games for his country - and 33 overall.

But the predatory striker is left with only bragging rights to cherish after becoming a record holder and manager Nigel Worthington feels that is a shame.

To score 13 in the campaign, David deserves all the accolades he gets, '' he said. "There should be a prize for the top scorer. You have the Golden Boot and things for people who do well."