Euro 2016 here we come… oh, wait.
Ireland romped to the most comprehensively puzzling 0-0 draw with their northern neighbours this afternoon.
Martin O’Neill’s side battled Northern Ireland to a stand-still in a closed doors friendly at the Aviva Stadium – part of our Euro Qualifiers warm-ups.
Teams walking out at @AVIVAStadium today! @FAIreland v @OfficialIrishFA pic.twitter.com/6tmZzoelhD
— FAI (@FAIreland) June 4, 2015
O’Neill started Sheffield Wednesday’s Keiren Westwood in goal and gave a non-competitive debut to Bournemouth’s Harry Arter. Northern Ireland, coached by Michael O’Neill, had, by most accounts, the best of the opening exchanges but the hosts gradually grew into the match.
James McClean in action against @OfficialIrishFA‘s Conor McLaughlin! Match update will be provided after the game! pic.twitter.com/Qu52srii3K
— FAI (@FAIreland) June 4, 2015
Despite being 16 places above Ireland in FIFA’s latest [and entirely trustworthy] rankings, Northern Ireland could not claim a win on the road.
Take that Hodor!
The serious stuff starts against England, this weekend, and with a Qualifier clash with the Scots.
