Four-star NI too strong for Malta
International futsal side kick off World Cup qualifying prep with win
Last updated 19th Jan 2019
Northern Ireland’s futsal team kicked off their preparations for the World Cup qualifiers last night with a 4-2 win over Malta.
In the first of a warm-up double header at Newry Leisure Centre, Jonathan Michael’s side built on the momentum from their recent Home Internationals where they sealed a first-ever win over Wales.
Despite facing an attack-minded Maltese line-up, Northern Ireland played a controlled style of futsal – never allowing their opponents to have the upper hand.
A brace from Connor Millar and a goal apiece from Craig Taylor and James Gould – his first for Northern Ireland – secured victory.
The two sides will face each other again tonight (6.30 kick off).
The NI squad:
Goalkeepers: Philip Irvine (World United Futsal Club), Matthew McErlain (Belfast United Futsal Club)
Defenders: Adam Barr (FC Salisbury United), Scott Gunn (Newcastle Futsal Club), John Gibson (Banbridge Town Futsal Club), Ciaran Donaghy (Belfast United Futsal Club), James Gould (Banbridge Town Futsal Club).
Wingers: Jack Magee (Belfast United Futsal Club), Craig Taylor (Belfast United Futsal Club), Danny Stapleton (Manchester Futsal Club), Jordan Wilson (Banbridge Town Futsal Club), Conor Glenholmes (Wattcell Futsal Club).
Forwards: Darius Roohi (Sparta Belfast Futsal Club), Connor Millar (FC Salisbury United)