WALES' Newport-born striker Nathan Blake has warned fans: "Beating Italy, doesn't mean we going to win Euro 2004!"

The Wolves striker, who came on as a 90th-minute substitute for goal hero Craig Bellamy during the 2-1 qualifying victory over the Azzurri, is desperate for the supporters to keep their feet on the ground.

Wales could still be sitting pretty at the top of Group Nine with a maximum 12 points if they can find success over the back-to-back clashes with Euro whipping boys Azerbaijan.

But Blake believes the partying can only begin if Mark Hughes' men qualifying for Portugal in two years time.

"Last Wednesday was a great night for Welsh football," reflected Blake who helped Wolves to a much-needed 2-0 Nationwide First Division victory over Stoke City by scoring late in the game on Saturday.

"There were some great performances by the players.

"I thought Robbie Savage, Simon Davies and Danny Gabbidon were all tremendous, really.

"Paul Jones made some great saves but by picking those players out, it shouldn't take anything away from the whole team."

He added: "What we've done is called progress. Results like this doesn't mean that we're going to win the World Cup or the European Championship.

"You've got to enjoy these moments. But it was a big thing to carry on where we left off by beating Finland in Helsinki.

"We do need to keep our feet on the ground and then, when we've qualified, the party can begin."

But despite Blake's calming message to the fans, he has revealed that confidence was sky high inside the Welsh camp before kick off at the Millennium Stadium.

"People outside the squad didn't think we were capable of getting a result but people inside the squad certainly did," said Blake.

And, for now, the former Cardiff City star- who played for Spencer Old Boys as a junior - is happy to wait for his moment to shine during Wales' qualifying campaign with boss Mark Hughes installing Celtic's John Hartson as his number one striker.

"At the end of the day, it's all about the team," stressed Blake. "We're playing one man up front so what can you do?"