NI boss Nigel Worthington 'positive' despite defeat

Nigel Worthington during his team's defeat by Wales on Friday night

Northern Ireland manager Nigel Worthington refused to be downheartened after his team ended its Nations Cup campaign with a third straight defeat.

Wales' 2-0 win left the Irish without a point or a goal in their three games in the inaugural tournament.

"The performance tonight was probably the best of the three games," he said.

"We haven't scored a goal or won a game which is disappointing but we'll take a lot of heart from tonight. It gives some of the kids more experience."

Worthington added:"Wales had a very strong team out. We kept our shape and pressed the ball well.

"We had a few bits and pieces around the Welsh goal so there are a lot of pluses."

Worthington added that his players had "responded well" to Tuesday's 5-0 drubbing by the Republic of Ireland.

"We're looking to build for the future. When you haven't got your first group select, you have to got to do the next thing.

"The (young) players have been a real pleasure to work with this week.

"A lot of questions were asked whether we could get them picked up.

"There was a lot of spirit there and I think they come out with credit."