TNS & New Zealand forward Greg Draper eager for Olympics

The New Saints striker Greg Draper says he is eager for his chance to represent New Zealand at this year's Olympics having scored the goal that secured the country's place at London 2012.

The 22-year-old's penalty in the qualifying final against Fiji sealed the Kiwis place at this year's games.

"I can't wait to get going," he told BBC Radio Shropshire.

"The last few months have been great with the whole country building up to the Olympics."

Draper added: "They're special occasions and it's great I've got a chance to go."

The former Canterbury United and Melbourne Knights forward has played on and off for New Zealand over the last five years, and scored three goals in the qualifying tournament.

But he admitted the side had found their progression tough, adding: "The qualifiers were difficult.

"We scraped through the semi-final. We were 3-0 up and conceded two late goals. We were so nervous with the chance of going to the Olympics."

Draper was part of New Zealand's squad at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and is now leading goal scorer at The New Saints with 19 goals.

TNS, currently top of the Welsh Premier, are still in the running to win three trophies this season and qualify for the qualifying stages of the UEFA Champions League.