Unlucky NI lose to Scotland in first of Home Nations internationals

Jonny Michael's side hit crossbar and post twice in 4-1 defeat

NI v Scotland
Author: Nigel GouldPublished 1st Dec 2017
Last updated 2nd Dec 2017

Northern Ireland's international futsal team put up a superb fight in their Home Nations tournament opener against Scotland but eventually went down 4-1.

Jonny Michael's side have come a long way since their Home Nations debut last year and deserved much more against the Scots.

It was nip and tuck from the whistle at the Oriam sports centre in Edinburgh - with each side having their fair share of shots on goal.

Scotland opened the scoring but Conor Glenholmes equalised with a fine strike.

MInutes later, though the home side grabbed a spectacular third and late on added another.

Michael said the scoreline was not a true reflection on the game.

His side hit both the crossbar and the post twice as they peppered the Scots goal with an array of shots.

"Delighted we scored from a set piece which we had been working on," he said.

"Then we concede again. The boys have to learn from this.

"But we can take a lot of positives out of it".

Tomorrow night (Sat) Northern Ireland play tournament favourites England who beat Wales 3-0 in their opener.

"It's going to be tough but our players always give their all and we're hoping we can do ourselves justice."