MEN’S ACHIEVEMENT INSPIRES HUTTON

EXPERIENCED defender Ashley Hutton insists Northern Ireland are not feeling any added pressure going into their final two Euro qualifiers. With a play-off place at stake, expectation levels are rising as Kenny Shiels’ side goes for glory.

Hutton accepts tonight’s game against Belarus is “probably” the biggest game in the history of Northern Ireland Women’s football.

But she insists that label should act as a source of inspiration, rather than be a burden to carry into tonight’s game at Seaview.

“To be part of this game is amazing and all the girls are looking forward to it,” she said.

“We have beaten Belarus already, but that means nothing going into Friday night. We had a great 1-0 win over there, but they will be hungry to hit back and earn some revenge this time round.

“We feel we have momentum.

Friday night is the most important game for us, and next week’s Faroe Islands game can wait.”

She added: “Northern Ireland have never been in this position before.

“Normally we would be playing out the final games of a campaign for pride, but we want to replicate what the men did in 2016.

“That pushed on men’s football in Northern Ireland, and we want to push on more young girls here to get involved in football.”

Hutton (right) believes a blend of experience and youth has served Northern Ireland well in their Euro campaign.

“Most of the young ones have no fear. They’re confident enough. But if they are struggling then you throw an arm around them and help them,” the Linfield Ladies star added. But they are a confident bunch and a strong group of kids. They add some youth to the team which is great.”