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28.04.05
Ukraine
0 - 2 Northern Ireland
After
the disappointment of Tuesday's loss to Switzerland, Ian Stewart's
side were determined to get a result from this game. With the suspension
of Rachel Furness, Stewart was forced to make several changes to
his squad, including a starting position for Martine Power and Danielle
McDowell.
From
the outset, Northern Ireland demonstrated their desire to win this
game, with several early scoring changes being thwarted by some
excellent goalkeeping from Ukraine # 23 in goals, Kateryna Samson.
In the 12th minute however, Samson was unable to stop a powerful
shot from the edge of the box by Lynne McFrederick, scoring her
first ever international goal.
Building
in confidence by the minute, players such as McDowell on the right
wing continued to cause the Ukrainians problems. A resolute defence
stood strong and kept the score to 1 - 0 at halt-time.
The
second half began in a similar manner, with Northern Ireland creating
some excellent goalscoring chances. Ukraine did manage a spell of
creative passing with Olena Klevets (#7) and Ganna Mozolska (#11)
on either wing being the most influential players for the blues.
Northern Ireland weathered the storm however, and the victory was
sealed in the 87th minute, when Lisa O'Neill managed to get on the
end of a Lisa Carleton cross from the right wing.
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