Anthem and flag row overshadows World Cup Qualifier

By Q Radio

Northern Ireland lost 2-0 in last night's World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland at Mourneview Park in Lurgan.

The occasion is being overshadowed by a controversy about no national flags being flown and no anthems being played before the match. 

The Irish FA has issued a statement citing "safety concerns." 

Here's the statement in full:

"Following safety concerns raised ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifier between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland at Mourneview Park, it was agreed with the UEFA match delegate that neither national anthem be played or flag be flown before the game."

Further details are expected later. 

NI fans show their appreciation for a battling performance...next time...#GAWA @NorthernIreland 0 @FAIreland 2 pic.twitter.com/IoEJNQIOVp

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) September 19, 2017

^{Northern Ireland players show their appreciation for the fans after the game}

We've spoken to a member of the Republic squad who's said the team knew beforehand about the flags/anthem issue. 

The player, who didn't want to be identified, said threats were received of "trouble" had their anthem been played at Mourneview. 

Newry City captain Grace Murray has represented the Republic and was at last night's match as a spectator.

She's made contact with her former teammates in the international set-up.

Newry City Ladies captain Grace Murray on the lack of anthems or flags:

On the pitch Man City left-back Megan Campbell was the star of the show for the Republic.

Her trademark long throws posed problems all night and one just before the break resulted in Rachel Furness glancing a header into her own goal

.@NorthernIreland midfielder @caraghm96 after tonight's 2-0 defeat v @FAIreland in FIFAWWC qualifier ... pic.twitter.com/D9pUwsOH7E

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) September 19, 2017

^{NI Midfielder Caragh Milligan after the game}

Campbell's long-range shot in the second half confirmed Northern Ireland's second qualifying defeat in five days and clinched victory for the visitors.

However, home boss Alfie Wylie was not impressed by their style of play:

Here's Northern Ireland midfielder, Caragh Milligan:

The 20-year-old today returns to her club, in Iceland: 

Meanwhile, the Republic are waiting to hear the extent of the knee injury suffered by former runner-up in FIFA world goal of the year, Sunderland striker Stephanie Roche - she was stretchered off in the closing stages.