Fresh faces to managerial mayhem – NI’s qualifying campaignImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Michael McArdle’s side finished third in their groupByJana McCabeBBC Sport NI journalistPublished23 minutes agoA World Cup group qualifying campaign with many talking points for Northern Ireland came to an end with the main objective achieved – keeping the World Cup dream alive. NI finished third in Group B2 after two wins and four defeats, securing a spot in the World Cup play-off and their League B status for the next Nations League on goal difference.From managerial upheaval to a host of senior debuts, it has been a campaign of development and transition for Northern Ireland.But will it ultimately be viewed as a positive one?BBC Sport NI takes a look at some of the main talking points. Managerial change sparks fresh optimism Back in November, just weeks after the qualifying draw was made, it was declared that Australian Tanya Oxtoby would leave her role as manager to take over at WSL side Newcastle United. With no clear successor in the pipeline and a lengthy wait for an announcement, it looked like this campaign would be one to forget before it had even started.Kris Lindsay was appointed interim boss in January and oversaw narrow defeats against Switzerland and Turkey with the Northern Ireland U16 manager doing a commendable job at the helm during the opening fixtures.However, shortly after, Michael McArdle was declared as permanent manager.Few supporters had heard of the Scot before his appointment but, in just three months, he has made a significant impact.Victories in his opening games, albeit against Malta who finished winless and bottom of the group, ended the side’s six game run without a win and set the standard for what McArdle would expect.Although they lost their final two qualifiers, it is clear that the players agree with McArdle’s long-term plans with Rebecca McKenna adding he has “brought a breath of fresh air”.
