Austria 2-1 Northern Ireland: Ian Baraclough’s men suffer more late heartbreak

Out of Euro 2020, Northern Ireland now face relegation from the Nations League as well.

Two late goals from group leaders Austria at the Ernst-Happel Stadium in Vienna last night left a much-changed side with nothing to show for an encouraging performance, three days after that heart-breaking play-off defeat to Slovakia in Belfast.

One point from five games means Ian Baraclough’s side could drop to tier three even if they win their final game against Romania at Windsor Park on Wednesday.

If Romania are awarded victory after their match with Norway last night (sun) was cancelled following a positive Covid test in the Norwegian camp then bottom-of-the-table Northern Ireland will not be able to catch them.

Despite last night’s disappointment, Baraclough will draw encouragement from the performances of an unfamiliar line-up at a time when the international futures of some of his ageing stars are once again in question.

Injuries and the need for fresh legs after losing in extra-time on Thursday night meant that he made eight changes – including a debut for St Johnstone midfielder Alistair McCann – as he started with a back-three.

It worked well in a first half that saw Northern Ireland match their opponents and go closest to opening the scoring.

The opportunity arrived in the eighth minute when Liam Boyce broke from halfway and had a clear sight of goal but dragged his shot wide of the far post.

David Alaba of Bayern Munich created Austria’s two best chances, crossing to the far post where Stefan Ilsanker just failed to make contact with the ball, and then sending over a corner for Michael Gregoritsch to head just off target shortly before half-time.

Northern Ireland went ahead in the 74th minute after a fine passing move and one fortunate deflection when Gavin Whyte fed Paddy McNair who played in Josh Magennis, and the Hull City striker kept his composure to score.

But Austria equalised seven minutes later when Stefan Lainer crossed from the right and Louis Schaub rifled home. Then Marko Arnautovic set up Adrian Grbic to snatch the winner in the 87th minute.