Northern Ireland v Slovakia player ratings after painful defeat in World Cup qualifier

It was always going to be a big ask without the likes of Ethan Galbraith but Michael O’Neill’s men held their own for the first half

Despite defeat for Northern Ireland in Slovakia, there were plenty of reasons for optimism. It was always going to be a big ask without the likes of Ethan Galbraith but Michael O’Neill’s men held their own for the first half.

Things turned after half-time and Slovakia had the ball in the net there times. However, two were rightly ruled out – for offside and then handball.

The third goal stood to set up a huge final round clash between Germany and Slovakia. Northern Ireland host Luxembourg on their final game on Monday and will hope for an improved display in front of their own fans in Belfast.

Here’s how they rated in Kosice..

Bailey Peacock-Farrell 6 Mistimed his jump for the Slovakian goal. Will regret that mistake.

Ruairi McConville 7 Great clearances when needed. Put his body on the line.

Daniel Ballard 8 Unlucky not to score in the first half; even more unfortunate to be sent off in the second.

Patrick McNair 6 Had his moments but was subbed off in the second half prior to the final quarter

Trai Hume 6 Was under pressure against Haraslin, the brilliant Slovak winger. Still, put in a solid shift

Conor Bradley 8 He oozes class. He gets forward; he tracks back. He leads. He threads passes. He makes big tackles. Top player

George Saville 8 By George, he is good. He always takes up the right positions. Solid performance

Justin Devenny 7 So much to like about Devenny’s industry but also his creativity. His crosses were dangerous.

Isaac Price 7 As honest as the day is long. Pressed relentlessly. Had good touches on the ball, too

Dion Charles 6 Subbed at half time after nearly getting a headed goal. His looping header just lacked power

Subs: Josh Magennis offered energy; Jamie Reid was unlucky not to stay on the field longer but injury forced him off

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