IT was a proud night for James McClean in New Jersey despite the Republic of Ireland’s 3-1 friendly defeat to Mexico.
The Albion winger captained the Boys in Green for the first time on a night which also saw him win his 50th cap for his country.
McClean completed 90 minutes at the MetLife Stadium and his cross late on led to Stephen Gleeson firing home a consolation for Martin O'Neill’s side.
Goals from Jesus Manuel Corona, Raul Jimenez (pen) and former Baggies man Carlos Vela had put Mexico 3-0 up before the hour.
McClean and the Republic of Ireland will fly home in time to face Uruguay at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday, before coming up against Austria in World Cup qualifying in Dublin on Sunday, June 11.