Eight Danske Bank Women’s Premiership stars were involved for Northern Ireland in a significant victory in Belarus, despite the team playing over an hour of the match with a player less.
Glentoran goalkeeper Jacqueline Burns - one of five Northern Ireland based players to start the encounter - was dismissed midway through the first half, but a goal from Liverpool’s Rachel Furness three minutes before the break secured the points.
Burns started the game alongside Glens teammate Nadene Caldwell, while veteran duo Ashley Hutton and Julie Nelson - of Linfield and Crusaders respectively - alongside Sion Swifts forward Kirsty McGuinness were also in from the start.
Kirsty’s sister and Sion teammate Caitlin was one of three Danske Bank Women’s Premiership stars to emerge from the bench in the second half, with Linfield defender Abbie Magee and Cliftonville captain Marissa Callaghan also introduced.
Demi Vance and Chloe McCarron - who secured moves to Rangers and Birmingham City this year following starring roles with Glentoran and Linfield respectively - also featured.
The victory moves Kenny Shiels’ side up to third in Group C and they are still in contention for a playoff spot.
It was the second win on the bounce for Northern Ireland, following last month’s six-goal victory in the Faroe Islands.
