NI Soccer's Reign To Be Maintained

Rain won't stop play at this evening's Euro 2012 qualifier international - but it may help the home side battle their Mediterranean opponents.

Already, Italy is facing a tough match against Northern Ireland with Manchester United defender Jonny Evans likely to return to the team for Friday's qualifier.

Northern Ireland started their qualifying campaign with a 1-0 win over Slovenia in Maribor at the start of September but they trail Group C leaders Italy by three points, but have a game in hand.

But, giant-killers NI have a good track record at Windsor Park - beating the likes of Spain and England in the past and are viewed as "more dangerous when playing at home" thanks to Northern Ireland making a habit of producing the goods in front of their home fans.

Wet conditions may favour the boys in Green even though Italy, coached by Cesare Prandelli, head into the encounter on the back of victories over Estonia and the Faroe Islands.

Italy's resounding 5-0 defeat of the Faroe Islands in the last Euro2012 qualifier was welcomed, but the real test for Italy begins now, as they play Northern Ireland tonight and Serbia on Tuesday at the same time as the Faroe Islands v Northern Ireland game - away this time.

NI Sports Minister Nelson McCausland has sent his best wishes to the Northern Ireland team ahead of the much anticipated European Championship qualifier clash with Italy.

Speaking ahead of the Windsor Park game, the Minister said: "I am looking forward to attending the game, to sit with the fans, who I consider to be the best fans in the world, to cheer our boys on. The Northern Ireland team performed exceptionally well last month with a win over Slovenia in the first European Qualifier and I am confident we will raise our game once again against the Italians."

See: Irish Pitch For Euro 2012

(BMcC/GK)