The Northern Ireland women’s futsal team have been continuing their preparations for Euro qualifiers next year.
They played two friendlies against the England Deaf squad at St George’s Park, the English FA’s national training centre.
The Northern Ireland coaching team used the opportunity to introduce fresh talent. Seven newcomers were included in the 14-player squad to gain valuable international experience.
The opening game came just hours after the team landed in England, and fatigue showed in the second half, resulting in a narrow defeat against England Deaf, who are gearing up for World Cup finals early next year.
Matchday two delivered a thrilling contest. Goals from Kirsty Cameron and Jane McMaster twice put Northern Ireland ahead, however England responded each time and the match finished all square.
To replicate tournament conditions, the game went to a penalty shootout, where Northern Ireland triumphed 4-3 thanks to successful spot kicks from Amber Dempster, Jessica Rea, Sasha Clare and McMaster. And there were two great saves from goalkeeper Laura Newman in the shootout.
Northern Ireland will be taking part in the first stage of qualifiers (main round) for UEFA Women’s Futsal Euro 2027 in March. They have been drawn in Group C along with Slovenia, France and Latvia (hosts TBC).
The winners of three main round groups and the two best runners-up will qualify for the elite round next October where they will be joined by the 11 highest ranked European teams. The 2027 final tournament is being staged in Croatia.
The Northern Ireland women’s futsal squad featured:
Goalkeepers - Laura Newman (World United Futsal, Greenisland Women), Jodie Shannon (Bangor Ladies).
Defenders - Jessica Rea (Glenavon Futsal, Crusaders Strikers), Sasha Clare (World United Futsal, Larne), Siobhan Bell (St James’ Swifts).
Midfielders - Jane McMaster (World United Futsal, Linfield), Megan Weatherall (Glenavon Futsal), Vicky Carleton (Cliftonville Ladies), Mairead McCann (Crusaders Strikers), Aoibh Carroll (World United Futsal, Lisburn Ladies), Emi Wynne (Bangor Ladies).
Forwards - Amber Dempster (captain) (Bangor Ladies), Kirsty Cameron (World United Futsal, Larne), Rachel McConnell (Bangor Ladies).
