Northern Ireland's women's football team delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Malta in World Cup qualifying, marking a triumphant start for new manager Michael McArdle.
In his first match at the helm, McArdle watched his squad end a four-game scoring drought while securing their first clean sheet since April of last year. The comprehensive win at Mourneview Park showcased the attacking intent McArdle had emphasized during training sessions.
"There was intent. We have worked very hard and the girls have been focused in training not to just create opportunities but to finish them as well," McArdle told reporters after the match. "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."
Keri Halliday led the scoring with a double, while Joely Andrews and Danielle Maxwell added goals to complete the rout. The victory provided Northern Ireland with their first points in Group B2 of World Cup qualifying.
McArdle, who was appointed in March but had limited time with the squad before this international window, acknowledged areas for improvement despite the convincing scoreline.
"There's parts of the performance that are really exciting and there are others we have to be a bit more realistic that we have to get better at," he noted, referencing Malta's scoring opportunities that included hitting the crossbar and forcing a crucial save from goalkeeper Jackie Burns.
Winger Danielle Maxwell, who scored the fourth goal with an impressive lob, praised the immediate impact of McArdle's coaching philosophy.
"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," Maxwell said. "Before the game we were told to be brave and aggressive in the press and I think that really paid off."
The teams will meet again on Saturday in Ta'Qali, Malta, with Northern Ireland aiming to complete a perfect six-point week in their quest for a first-ever Women's World Cup appearance.
"It's half-time, but it gives us a chance," McArdle said of the upcoming rematch. "The intention coming into camp was six points and we need to make sure we recover well and come home with the three points."
Maxwell added that the victory provides "a stepping stone" for the team as they prepare for the away fixture, emphasizing the squad's commitment to maintaining their aggressive, front-foot approach.