McArdle praises NI's 'intent' in big win over Malta

Northern Ireland boss Michael McArdle praised the "intent" his side showed in his first game in charge as they eased to a 4-0 win over Malta in World Cup qualifying.

A double from Keri Halliday as well as goals from Joely Andrews and Danielle Maxwell helped NI to end a four-game goal drought as they also recorded a first clean sheet since April last year.

A front-footed display was key in their first victory in Group B2 and having talked about the need to be more of an attacking threat in the build-up to the game, McArdle was pleased with what he saw at Mourneview Park.

"There was intent. We have worked very hard and the girls have been focused in training not to just create the opportunities but to finish them as well," he told BBC Sport NI.

"The mentality was there tonight. It shows if you can unlock that bravery and be on the front foot more often, you can be rewarded.

"There's parts of the performance are really exciting and there are others we have to be a bit more realistic that we have to get better at."

Malta victory gives NI 'a stepping stone'

Media caption,

Highlights: Northern Ireland v Malta

McArdle was appointed in March but only got a few days to work with the players this month before the first of the double-header against Malta.

He said he has "loved" his fast-paced start to the role and is hoping NI replicate their performance in Lurgan in Ta'Qali on Saturday as they look to pick up another vital three points in their quest to qualify for a first ever World Cup.

"It's half-time, but it gives us a chance. There were moments where Malta showed how difficult they can be and they could have punished us," he added.

"Jackie [Burns] made a great save at one stage and they hit the bar as well, so they deserve respect.

"There's another game to go and the intention coming into camp was six points and we need to make sure we recover well and come home with the three points."

Winger Maxwell, who netted the fourth goal with a fine lob, has been impressed with McArdle's impact in a short space of time in implementing a more direct style.

"It's been very positive as you can tell the confidence we've been given to go forward, we can express ourselves a bit and it's been really good," she said.

"Before the game we were told to be brave and aggressive in the press and I think that really paid off. Collectively we played really well tonight.

"I think it gives us a stepping stone. We have to go away which will be tough but I think we're going to go in with the same mentality and be brave and confident going forward."