Northern Ireland Women retain Nations League B status | OneFootball

Northern Ireland celebrate their equaliser against Montenegro. (Photo: Ephy McConnell)

Northern Ireland defeated Montenegro 3-1 on aggregate in the UEFA Women’s Nations League play-offs after a 1-1 draw in Belfast.

Joely Andrews went close in front of a 4,000+ crowd in the opening minute, while Maddy Harvey-Clifford did well to keep out an early effort from Armisa Kuc.

From a Rebecca McKenna cut-back, Andrews and Simone Magill got in each other’s way and on half time, Caragh Hamilton’s shot was parried by Anastasija Krstovic and cleared off the line by Jelena Karlicic.

Montenegro threatened Northern Ireland’s place in the B Leagues, when midway through the second half, Karlicic’s corner was headed home by Medina Desic.

Magill rattled the crossbar and Danielle Maxwell met the rebound but her effort was pushed out by Krstovic.

Northern Ireland’s Simone Magill levels against Montenegro. (Bob Hall Sports Photography)

There was not too long to wait for the equaliser though,  as Maxwell crossed and Ellie Mason headed back across goal for Magill to finish.

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