O'Neill left feeling sore by Windsor Park defeat

Michael O'Neill was left disappointed by a “sore loss” as an unorthodox first international goal from Nick Woltemade gave Germany a 1-0 World Cup qualifying win over Northern Ireland in Belfast.

- by Sports Reporter

North End's Ali McCann shoots against Germany at Windsor Park (photo: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)

(Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)

Woltemade made the breakthrough in the 31st minute, turning in David Raum’s corner via the back of his shoulder, as a below-par Germany side left Windsor Park with three points that keep them top of Group A, level with Slovakia and three ahead of O’Neill’s side.

A young Northern Ireland side-which included PNE’s Ali McCann, who played the first 75 minutesonce again played with plenty of intent, growing into the game and managing more attempts at goal than their illustrious visitors.

But a lack of cutting edge proved costly in O’Neill's 100th game in charge.