Northern Ireland frustrated by Cyprus

Northern Ireland 0-0 Cyprus
Northern Ireland were held to a goalless draw by Cyprus in an entertaining encounter in Belfast tonight.

Lennon missing
Northern Irish coach Sammy McIlroy saw his makeshift side give an encouraging show despite the omission of captain Neil Lennon. The Celtic FC midfield player withdrew from the team after receiving a death threat in the hours leading up to the match.

Captain Williams
McIlroy will no doubt be heartened by this display, considering he was without a number of key players, not least of all Lennon. In his absence, Wimbledon FC defender Mark Williams was named captain - a fine way to celebrate his 20th cap.

Quinn denied
The Northern Irish made a bright start and Willem II striker James Quinn rattled in a 25-metre shot which goalkeeper Nikos Panayiotou did well to tip over. Williams then found the net following a quickly taken free-kick by Mark Kennedy, only for his effort to be disallowed.

Kaiafas goes close
The Cypriot side looked well organised and were content to try and stroke the ball about. However, they came close to snatching a winning goal in the 82nd minute when Chrysostohos Michail released Costas Kaiafas, but his shot was poor.

Tough opposition
Both side face tough opposition when their respective EURO 2004™ qualifying campaigns begin on 7 September. The Northern Irish travel to face Spain, while Cyprus will have their work cut out when they come face to face with France.