How Northern Ireland players rated against San Marino
The Northern Ireland players before kick-off at Windsor Park
Conor Hazard 6
The Plymouth Argyle goalkeeper was a surprise selection from Michael O’Neill. The belief is that this was a reward for Hazard’s loyalty, but Bailey Peacock-Farrell remains first choice and will play on Tuesday. Hazard had little to do, but what he did have to do he did well.
Trai Hume 7
The Sunderland right-back made a lively start to the game and got forward whenever possible to support the front three. He finished the game at left-back after Brodie Spencer entered the fray.
Jonny Evans 7
Before the game, the Manchester United defender received his 100th cap from Pat Jennings. Evans thought he’d marked the occasion with a sublime assist for Paul Smyth, only to see the goal struck out for offside.
Dan Ballard 7
When the Sunderland centre-back connected with one of Paul Smyth’s long throws it looked like he might registered a Windsor Park, but he found the side netting. Defensively, it was an easy day for the defenders.
Jamal Lewis 6
The left-back made a bright start supplying a superb assist for the first goal, but slowly regressed as the game went on. On occasions, attacks down the left flank broke down when the ball was at his feet.
Paddy McNair 6
The Middlesbrough midfielder put in a solid display although blotted his copy book when he picked up a needless yellow card deep in stoppage time. He will now miss the Slovenia game.
Jordan Thompson 6
The Stoke City midfielder has the ability to dictate games like this, but he spent most of the game floating round the outskirts of the action.
Shea Charles 7
The Southampton star was the pick of the midfield. He played with intensity throughout the game and rarely misplaced a pass.
Paul
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