Positives even in defeat for NI

May 7, 2009

Northern Ireland lost 3-0 to Scotland in a friendly last night but manager Nigel Worthington took two positives from the match in the form of Corry Evans and Ryan McGivern.

“I thought those two players stood out. They looked assured and comfortable in all they were doing. They played well.

“We lost the ball in some bad positions for the goals but it is a good learning curve for the young players and their workrate and attitude has been superb.

“It was a useful exercise and gives our younger players some experience.”

“Some of them came through very well and the youngsters were fearless and gave us some energy.

“We were disappointed to lose the game but Scotland had some very experienced players out there,” said Worthington.

The Northern Ireland boss expects to field another inexperienced side in next month’s senior friendly against Italy and many of those who faced Scotland may have another chance to shine.

“A lot of the senior players will be having a well-earned break so our side to face Italy is going to be very, very young.

“Hopefully that message will get across to Italy and they will do likewise.”

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