03/04/2003

McIlroy's job in question following Greek defeat

Sammy McIlroy's job as Northern Ireland manager was in doubt today following last night's 2-0 defeat by Greece in Belfast.

Although Sammy's team had two men sent off thanks to what the crowd considered to be some dubious refereeing decisions, it is now 792 playing minutes since Northern Ireland scored a goal and 17 months since the side won.

It also follows Saturday's 1-0 away defeat to Armenia in Yerevan.

Following the match last night Sammy McIlroy said: "A result like this makes me all the more determined to succeed. I have no thoughts about quitting."

But two goals from Werder Bremen striker Angelos Charisteas condemned the side to another defeat, despite Mark Williams almost ending the goal drought late in the game with a well placed shot rebounding off the crossbar.

(MB)

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