Josh Magennis on form as Northern Ireland despatch San Marino

Northern Ireland have eased to a 3-0 victory against San Marino to strengthen their hold on a World Cup qualifying play-off place.

Steve Davis and Oliver Norwood both had chances in the opening stages but failed to hit the target before Filippo Berardi shot wide at the other end.

Josh Magennis then headed wide from a corner and a Davis shot was deflected over the crossbar.

Conor Washington should have opened the scoring before half time when he was put through by Norwood but the finish was wide.

Northern Ireland continued to struggle in front of goal. This time, Magennis hit the post before Jonny Evans blazed over from the rebound.

Magennis finally had the ball in the back on the hour mark but it was ruled out after a foul on the goalkeeper.

Northern Ireland finally got the goal 20 minutes from time and it was Magennis who finished after his initial header was saved.

It took just five minutes for Magennis to add a second when he headed in from close range and Davis scored from the penalty spot with 12 minutes to spare to increase Northern Ireland’s chances of reaching the playoffs.