NI struggle in 1-1 Malta draw

Northern Ireland where booed off the pitch by their own supporters last night following a humiliating 1-1 draw with Malta in Valetta.

Lawrie Sanchez’s team, which comprised four Premiership players, failed to show any character or motivation against a team 25 places lower in the World rankings and containing only one full time player.

David Healy's 18th international goal was the only bright spot for his side however this was shortlived when Ivan Woods equalised with a 25-yard strike just before half-time.

Woods was then sent off alongside Sheffield United winger Keith Gillespie on 77 minutes, both raised their hands during an altercation.

However, the visitor’s were then spared any blushes when Maik Taylor saved a penalty with only seconds to go.

Speaking after the game, Sanchez said his side were lucky to come away with any sort of result.

"We did not win because we did not perform as we can," Sanchez said.

"The Malta lad scored an unbelievable goal and if you give teams chances someone is going to take one.

"I take full responsibility for our poor display in the first half. If we had lost the match I would have been bitterly disappointed."

Next up for Northern Ireland is two back-to-back World Cup qualifiers at Windsor Park against Azerbaijan and England in September.

Failure to secure a result in the Azerbaijan game will see pressure build on manager Sanchez who has failed to see his side secure a win in ten matches.

(MB/SP)