NI seal second spot by beating Czech Republic
Northern Ireland hopes of reaching the World Cup finals next summer remain on course following a 2-0 win over Czech Republic at Windsor Park.
The result secures second spot in Group C and a likely play-off spot in a bid to reach their first World Cup finals appearance since 1986.
Despite only needing a draw on the night, manager Michael O’Neill promised a positive game plan and it was executed superbly.
A close range Jonny Evans header, his first international goal in eight years, and a sweetly struck free kick from Chris Brunt gave Northern Ireland the three points and also recorded five consecutive clean sheets and five competitive wins in a row for the first time.
A direct approach brought an early chance for Josh Magennis, he got up well to get his head to Chris Brunt’s corner but the ball flew a yard wide.
The visitors responded with some neat football and Brunt did well to get back and cut out the danger with Darida ready to pounce.
The lively start continued with both sides trying to find an opening and on 17 minutes a good break by Stuart Dallas ended with a teasing cross aimed at Magennis but goalkeeper Vaclik was there to collect.
The Czechs came close to opening the scoring with a great diagonal ball by Novak finding Krmencik, but the angle was difficult and his header lacked any power to trouble Michael McGovern.
The stadium erupted on 28 minutes as Northern Ireland took the lead and it was the man at the centre of intense transfer speculation last week who made it 1-0.
Jonny Evans was in the perfect spot to head home.
The chance came after Brunt’s corner was cleared, Oliver Norwood directed the ball back into the danger zone and Evans flicked a header over the keeper.
Poor defending by the visitors, but that hardly mattered to the celebrating home fans.
A second goal 12 minutes later put Northern Ireland firmly in command and it came from the left boot of Brunt.
A quick counter attack saw Steven Davis put Corry Evans in space, he was floored some 25 yards out.
Brunt stepped up to take the free kick and he thumped a delightful curling shot into the bottom corner of the net.
An excellent start to the second half saw Magennis see his shot blocked, but the visitors were up for the fight and they enjoyed a lot of possession without really troubling McGovern in the Northern Ireland goal.
The Czechs were determined to get on the score-sheet, but Northern Ireland were just as determined to extend their impressive defensive record.
In the end there was no way through and the fans made it a party atmosphere right to the end, but manager O'Neill will not be celebrating too much until Northern Ireland's spot in the final eight teams for the two-legged play-offs is secured.
Two games remain in the group, home to World champions Germany and finally a trip to Norway.