Northern Ireland 0 Italy 0: Nigel Worthington's side make their point as Italians are held at Windsor Park

By JOHN EDWARDS

So close: David Healy's header is just off target


Nigel Worthington underlined Northern Ireland's growing self-belief by revealing his players felt flat at only holding former World Champions Italy to a draw.

'That was a performance of character, determination and resilience,' said the Northern Ireland manager.

'But the most pleasing thing is the players are disappointed at not winning, after creating the better chances.'

Italy may not be the force of old, but they hardly expected to be run so close by a Northern Ireland side who repelled their attacks with ease and almost claimed another notable scalp in the first minute of added time.

The tireless Steven Davis exchanged passes with substitute Niall McGinn and found himself beyond the last line of a tiring Italy defence, with just keeper Emiliano Viviano to beat. As a packed Windsor held its breath, Davis' mishit shot was scrambled round the post, amid claims he had been impeded.

It still counted as another impressive performance by Worthington's side, as they built on an opening win on Slovenia and made it clear they mean business in Group C.


Up for the battle: Gareth McAuley fights for the ball with Italy goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano


In a game of few clear chances, they could point to agonising near-misses by David Healy and Davis as evidence that they gave as good as they got.

Spain and England will both vouch for the galvanising effect of a vibrant home crowd on Northern Ireland's players, and Healy, in particular, after the matchwinning heroics that carved out two of the most famous results in their recent history.


A handy appeal: Warren Feeney and Stephen Craigan were convinced they should have had a second half penalty following an apparent handball by Daniele De Rossi


There was an opportunity for more of the same in the 32nd minute, after Chris Brunt picked out Healy with a pinpoint curling cross.

It would once have been despatched without a moment's hesitation, but a recent diet of reserve team football at Sunderland has done little for his confidence. The resulting header was duly steered wide from just six yards, and the two-year wait for his 36th international goal continued.


Stalemate: It was another night to remember at Windsor Park for Northern Ireland


Italy almost made the most of their good fortune seconds later, as Roma striker Marco Borriello forced a fine reflex save from Maik Taylor and Antonio Cassano curled the follow-up narrowly wide.

Substitute Giampaolo Pazzini headed wastefully wide in the 86th minute, but Italy could have few complaints after being reprieved by Davis at the end.



source :dailymail