01/04/2004

Healy goal secures first NI win in 16 games

Northern Ireland have secured their first win in sixteen attempts after beating Estonia 1-0 in Tallinn on Wednesday.

David Healy's 10th goal in 30 international appearances, a sweetly stuck 20-yard strike on the stroke of half-time, helped secure the victory.

Yesterday's match was the second game in charge for manager Lawrie Sanchez, who was delighted with both the win and performance of his make shift side.

"It is my first win in charge and hopefully it is the first of many," Sanchez said.

"It was hard work but very enjoyable. It's nice to win a football match again - it's been a long time for us.

"Not only was it nice to win it was a great goal that sealed the victory in what was a good contest."

Northern Ireland's victory over a team ranked nearly 60 places above them in the FIFA rankings will hearten the most dedicated of supporters.

The manner in which they did so will also please both players and staff as Sanchez' side created around 11 clear cut chances with Healy missing a golden opportunity to make it 2-0, however he fluffed his second half chance from six yards out.

Northern Ireland next face Serbia and Montenegro at Windsor Park on April 28 before they embark on a three match tour of the Carribean in May-June prior to the World Cup Qualifiers in September.

(MB)

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