McGinn delighted at goal against Portugal

Published Wednesday, 17 October 2012
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Niall McGinn says he is absolutely over the moon to have scored his first international goal against star-studded Portugal during Tuesday's World Cup Qualifier.

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The Aberdeen striker was ecstatic after thwarting the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani.

The Portugal duo are considered two of the most dangerous wingmen in the world but it was their unheralded opposite number who stole the headlines with a fine counter-attacking goal to put the visitors ahead in Porto.

Niall McGinn's 30th-minute effort set up the prospect of a giantkilling act to rival the famous wins over Spain and England under Lawrie Sanchez, only for Helder Postiga to equalise with little more than 10 minutes left.

McGinn would not even have started had the likes of Chris Brunt and Shane Ferguson been fit, and was still coming to terms with his maiden strike for his country.

"I'm absolutely over the moon to get my first international goal," he told UTV.

"I think a lot of credit has to go to Roy on goals, he made a lot of crucial saves and defensively the boys were first class."

He explained how he made the most of his opportunity at the Dragao Stadium.

"Michael (O'Neill) told me before the game there was always going to be space in behind the full-backs as both full backs usually push on," he said.

"So Kyle took a good touch turn and seen me at the right time, thankfully I took a good first touch and I finished well."

Injuries have played their part in halting the 25-year-old's progress in the past.

"Things have been going well with Aberdeen..and I've came back from injury quite well so I'm more than happy and I'll take every game as it comes," he said.

He is already looking forward to his next match with Aberdeen against Dundee Utd on Saturday.

With two points from their first three Group F matches, Northern Ireland's World Cup qualification campaign continues next month with a home clash against Azerbaijan.

© UTV News
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1 Comments
Linda in NI wrote (245 days ago):
What a goal Niall McGinn hope you score many more for our wee country, mind you everyone played brilliantly Norn Iron is proud of you all
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