Gareth McAuley: Defender relieved NI 'didn't get walloped' in Germany defeat

Northern Ireland defender Gareth McAuley says Germany's quality is "on a totally different level" to the Premier League after the world champions beat the Irish 2-0 in Hanover.

The West Brom defender said the Northern Ireland players were relieved "we didn't get walloped" after Julian Draxler and Sami Khedira hit early goals for the Germans.

"It's their movement, their quality of passing, their recognition of what they are doing and who is moving where. They run you all over the place," said McAuley, 36.

Jonny Evans admitted that he hadn't been able to "make eye contact" with his central defensive partner McAuley for the opening half hour of the game, such was the challenge posed by the Germans.

"I didn't know whether to laugh or cry," said Evans.