Football: McFadden strike sinks the Italians to seal famous NI win

Northern Ireland rounded off their 2022 campaign in fine style with a superb win over Italy in front a packed crowd at Seaview last night.

Experienced defender Sarah McFadden hit the only goal of the game shortly after the hour mark, when she forced the ball over the line after a Demi Vance corner wasn't properly cleared.

It was no more than Kenny Shiels' side deserved for a sterling performance that belied the 35 places in the difference in world rankings. While 14th-placed Italy had chances of their own, the hosts were the better side for the majority of the match.

Jackie Burns was called into action to deny Beatrice Melo a leveller, but substitute Caitlin McGuinness could have doubled Northern Ireland's advantage, only to see her poked effort cleared off the line.

While goalscorer McFadden was forced off through injury ten minutes from time, Northern Ireland held firm to secure a famous victory and end a hugely positive 12 months that saw the side qualify for their first major tournament in the Summer.

MATCH STATS

Northern Ireland: Burns, McKenna, Vance, McFadden (Nelson 80), Burrows, Caldwell (Andrews H-T), McCarron (Finnegan 88), Callaghan (C), Wilson (C McGuinness 73), Hamilton (McDaniel 73), Wade (K McGuinness 73)

Subs not used: Turner (GK), Holloway, Maxwell, Beattie, Magee, Morgan

Italy: Giuliani, Cafferata, Bartoli, Filangeri, Boattin (Linari 71), Glionna (Giacinti 71), Giugliano, Simonetti (Caruso 71), Cernoia (Polli 89), Bonansea (Cantore H-T), Bartoli (Merlo H-T)

Subs not used: Aprile (GK), Galli, Rosucci, Giacinti, Soffia, Durante

Referee: Viki De Cremer