Malta lost 4-0 away to Northern Ireland at Mourneview Park in their European Qualifier, with the hosts scoring early in both halves.
Northern Ireland took the lead after just five minutes, when Keri Halliday finished from close range. They doubled their advantage in the 17th minute through Joely Andrews, who converted a cross.
Malta tried to respond and had a chance through Rachel Cuschieri, but her shot was blocked. Goalkeeper Giulia D’Antuono was then called into action several times to keep the score down before half-time.
Early in the second half, Northern Ireland made it 3-0, with Halliday scoring her second goal of the match. Malta almost pulled one back shortly after, but Haley Bugeja’s effort hit the crossbar.
Moments later, Danielle Maxwell added a fourth goal for the hosts, finishing well to make it 4-0.
Malta continued to push forward and created more chances, with Maria Farrugia going close twice, but they were unable to score.
The two teams will meet again on Saturday, this time in Malta at the Centenary Stadium.
