NI score first goal in two years

Players and fans of the Northern Ireland football team were in jovial mood today despite last night's 4-1 friendly defeat at the hands of Norway at Windsor Park.

The reason for their optimism was a first goal for Northern Ireland in two years of trying and a second half performance which bodes well for Lawrie Sanchez' reign as manager for the forthcoming 2006 World Cup qualifying campaign.

Two goals from Morten Pederson and one from Steffen Iversen left Northern Ireland fans speechless as Lawrie Sanchez' team went in at half time 3-0 down following a poor defensive display.

However, a rousing half-time team talk, as well as a substitution and some tactical manoeuvring, sparked some life into a team which hadn't scored in 13 games.

Step up David Healy who scored a magnificent header on 56 minutes following a superb cross from Keith Gillespie.

However, any thought of a comeback was shortlived as Norway scored within one minute of the restart through an own goal by Gillespie.

A rousing final 30 minutes showed plenty of positives with Healy missing a glorious chance 10 yards from goal.

But, while a second goal wasn't to be, the majority of fans didn't seem to care as they sang and applauded their team off the park in one of the most surreal atmospheres seem at Windsor Park in years.

Northern Ireland's next game is away to Estonia next month and the chance for Lawrie Sanchez' team to break another milestone by securing their first win in 15 games.

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