DAVO’S RALLY CRY: Pages 48-49

NORTHERN Ireland captain Steven Davis called the goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland “a missed opportunity” as the side look to find some much-needed momentum before next year’s Euro 2020 qualifiers.

Northern Ireland’s search for a ruthless streak continued as Republic goalkeeper Darren Ran- dolph was named man of the match following key saves from Gavin Whyte and Jordan Jones.

The result left Northern Ireland with only two wins from their last 12 outings with relegation in the Nations League already confirmed ahead of tomorrow’s final match at home to Austria (5.00pm).

“I kind of feel it was a missed opportunity,” Davis said.

“I thought again the performance was really good and if you look at the balance of play and chances created then we should have won the game quite comfortably.

“It’s disappointing from that aspect, but obviously there are a lot of positives to take from how we played.

“It’s never easy coming away from home but I thought we controlled the game really well. Our shape was good and we made good use of the ball and only one team looked like winning it so it was a pleasing performance but it would have been nice to get the victory.

“It shows we are moving in the right direction. We don’t want to get into the mindset though of going away from home and putting in a really good performance but not getting the result to go with it. We need to become more ruthless and hopefully that will come.”

A goalless draw between Austria and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Vienna sealed Northern Ireland’s fate in the Nations League but Michael O’Neill’s side will now be hungry to sink Austria.

“It would be nice to finish 2018 on a high against Austria in front of our fans and get a victory,” Davis added.

“I think it’s important for us leading into the Euro 2020 qualifiers. I feel there is still a lot more for this team to give.”

Upbeat: NI captain Steven Davis