Post by Salem6 on Sept 5, 2005 12:21:39 GMT
Former Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pat Jennings enjoyed some famous moments against England but admits the odds are stacked against another upset.
Pat Jennings enjoyed success with NI manager Billy Bingham
Jennings played in the last NI side to beat England - back in 1972 - and also in the 0-0 draw at Wembley which sealed a place in the 1986 World Cup finals.
"When you look at the players England have it is hard to see how we can be on the same wavelength," said Jennings.
"Everybody likes to beat England, but sadly we have not done it that often."
Newry-born Jennings, who played a record 119 internationals for the province, revealed the tactics behind Northern Ireland's successes in reaching the 1982 and 1986 World Cup finals.
"Our philosophy was to always stick together as a team. Some years we got decent results, but it was difficult," added Jennings.
"The success we enjoyed in the 80s was built on not giving goals away. We were well organised under Billy Bingham and always felt we could nick a goal.
"I remember having six or seven clean sheets in succession at one stage."
The 0-0 draw at Wembley in November was a memorable night in Northern Ireland's football history.
"I recall that match better than our 1-0 win in the 1972 Home Internationals," said the NI keeper.
"I think I had more saves to make in that World Cup qualifier at Wembley in 1985.
"I made a decent save in the first half from Glenn Hoddle when he had a shot from 30 yards. Then there was Kerry Dixon's header late in the game.
"It was over the top of me but I was still confident I would get there. People are not aware that that half of the pitch was frozen so keeping your feet was difficult.
"My other big worry was that Alan McDonald was going to handle it so I was relieved I managed to get there."
That result secured Northern Ireland's place in Mexico '86 - their last appearance in the final stages.
Jennings accepts it is not even more difficult for Northern Ireland to qualify.
"The influx of foreign players into the English leagues means lads from Northern Ireland are not getting blooded through clubs.
"It is a problem, not just for us, but for the Republic of Ireland, Wales and Scotland as well.
"Realistically, when you look at the size of the countries, we should not be able to compete with England. But that is what makes football so interesting, the team with the best players does not always win.
"The fact that we do not have the Home Internationals, and do not play England that often, should be a huge incentive for the Northern Ireland players.
"Denmark have shown England can be beaten although the English players will be desperate to make up for that, especially after the stick they took in the media."
news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/internationals/4189108.stm