McIlroy: We gave away goals

Northern Ireland manager Sammy McIlroy has spoken of his frustration after they were given a lesson in Spain.

Two goals from Baraja and another from Guti gave the hosts a 3-0 victory in this Euro 2004 qualifying match.

McIlroy had to watch the game from the stand as he was serving a one-match touchline and dressing room ban.

It meant he had to relay his instructions by walkie-talkie to coach Alan McDonald on the dugout.

McIlroy said: “I felt completely lost. It was shocking, a horrible feeling, and I hope it never happens again.”

The Irish were undone by making mistakes at crucial times against a side ranked second equal in the world.

He said: “I am disappointed with the scoreline. We contributed to every goal they scored.

“We set out our stall but then lost our shape too much and got punished.

“We gave goals away with sloppy mistakes. But apart from those errors, I can’t fault my team for their work rate and commitment.”

McIlroy decided to leave David Healy on the bench and brought in Keith Gillespie as a lone striker.

Defending his decision, McIlroy said: “When did David last score a goal?

“My decision to go with Gillespie was based on purely the pace he can give us.”