Belarus, echoing the way they played in the second half of last month’s goalless draw in Hungary, set up deep from the start at Windsor Park and sought to frustrate Northern Ireland with a low block. For much of the first half it was successful, but Northern Ireland prospered with two set-pieces in the second half. After Ballard headed home the opener from captain Shea Charles’ corner, Northern Ireland were awarded a penalty for a handball by Kirill Pechenin which Dion Charles dispatched. Last month Northern Ireland ran riot in a 5-0 win over Bulgaria, but O’Neill had expected this to be a harder challenge and had spoken to his players about needing to be patient and manage their frustration – something they were able to do. He’ll be disappointed he didn’t score in the first half but I think it’s important for him.
Source: The Herald November 16, 2024 11:50 UTC