Wales v Northern Ireland Match of the Day Wales

taking part in Euro 2016. Tonight, Wales play their last match at home

before the European Championships against fellow qualifiers Northern

Ireland and the countdown has well and truly begun.

With just under three months to go before Euro 2016 and dreams of

Bordeaux, Lens and Toulouse become reality. Before we go forward, we

must go back. Who is going to step up and book their place on the

plane? COMMENTARY: It's a beauty! Every

game between now and the tournament starting is preparation. It is huge.

Everyone knows they are fighting for a place on that plane. The test

tonight - Northern Ireland, also putting the finishing touches to

love to be back out there. We need his legs. He is a big miss. For some

of the young players tonight, this is a real opportunity to put their

hands up? It is. It's a great chance. Chris will look at a few

different things over these two games. It is a great chance for

people - there are a few players missing. For some of these younger

ones, it is a great chance to get on the plane to France. We will talk

more in a few moments. Let's hear from both coaches.

Chris, a few absentees tonight. I guess a chance for you to look at

some fringe players? Yes, I think some young boys in there, one or two

have been with us before. Ideally, we will give everybody some time on

the pitch. It is all about building towards the tournament and we are

missing quite a few. It's been a good few days since we have been

together. A tough game tonight, Northern Ireland. We are looking

forward to it. We are interested to see how some of the guys go at this

level. Michael, only two changes tonight. Yes, we want consistency in

the team. We have gone with a shape that we played in the last game as

well. It is an opportunity for Conor Washington and Paddy McNair will

start in midfield. We have one or two injuries. We are being cautious

with one or two players who have knocks. Happy with the line-up.

Michael O'Neill has signed a new contract with the Northern Ireland

Football Association. He has done a magnificent job, as has Chris

Coleman. Sam Vokes having a terrific season with Burnley, 14 goals this

season. He has formed a formidable partnership with Andre Grey. This is

a chance for him to say I want to lead the line? Most definitely. This

season he has started to fulfil the potential he's always had. It will

be a slightly different role for Sam tonight. Andre Gray stretches it

long. Sam will be leading the line tonight with Tom Lawrence in behind

him. I am pleased for him. He's got a good run of games. He is in

terrific form. A great opportunity for him. Not so sure Chris Coleman

will be happy with his latest interview, where he said, I'm not

thinking about the European Championships, I'm thinking about

promotion with Burnley. Could he do it at international level, could he

lead the line at a major finals? In Sam's defence, they have to

concentrate, players have to concentrate on what is in front of

them. Once the season is over, Championship season, he will be

focussed and committed to the Welsh cause without a doubt. I wouldn't

worry too much about him saying that. He will be loving being on

that plane to France. Northern Ireland will be in France. Their

fans will be very noisy. They have a tough group with Germany in their

group. From the genius of George Best in

the '70s, to Gerry Armstrong's goal against Spain, Northern Ireland have

had their memorable international moments.

COMMENTARY: Northern Ireland have scored! After a 30-year wait to

appear at a major tournament, they qualified for Euro 2016 winning

their group. After a difficult start with Northern Ireland, Michael

O'Neill has become a hero and emulated Billy Bingham in the 1980s.

It looks like he is here to stay having signed a four-year deal. Like

Wales, they have a good core of experienced Premier League players

to count on. COMMENTARY: Steven Davis! Newport

County fans will recognise the new face in the squad, Conor Washington.

Interesting, Michael O'Neill pipped Chris Coleman to be the BBC Sports

Personality of the Year Coach of the Year award in December. The thing

with Northern Ireland, they are hard to beat? They are. He has done a

terrific job. They have a real strong spine to the team,

experienced centre halves, with Steven Davis in the middle. They are

resilient. Have you been impressed with Conor Washington? I have, what

I have seen of him. He's hit the ground running and made a big

impression. They will be looking to him for big things. Kyle Lafferty is

another one who will be so important to them. OK. We will join our

commentators. We are almost there. We are about to kick-off.

It is exciting times, not just for the players, but the whole nation as

well. It is important we work on what we look to do in France.

COMMENTARY: Ashley Williams, the Wales captain, takes a last sip of

water before Wales and Northern Ireland emerge from their

international hibernation over the winter, with so much to look forward

to. All eyes, of course, on the Euro 2016 finals in Europe. The referee

is Steven McLean. He will wait for all the signals and start the march

on to the pitch at the Cardiff City Stadium. Wales, just a few months

ago, ensured qualification here for France.

This is a farewell to the home fans for this Welsh side. They are

playing a Northern Ireland side, who also made the Euros, their first

major tournament finals for 30 years.

We are about to have the anthems, as Wales manager Chris Coleman makes

his way along with the rest of the Welsh coaching side. We start with

the Northern Ireland National Anthem.

# Mae hen wlad fy nhadau yn annwyl i mi,

# Gwlad beirdd a chantorion, enwogion o fri;

# Ei gwrol ryfelwyr, gwlad garwyr tra mad,

# Tros ryddid collasant eu gwaed Gwlad, gwlad,

# Pleidiol wyf i'm gwlad, Tra mor yn fur

# I'r bur hoff bau, O bydded i'r hen iaith barhau. #

A hug for the two managers, Chris Coleman and Michael O'Neill. Their

paths have been similar over the last few years. And both at the

height of their managerial powers having led their sides to the

long-awaited Euro 2016 finals. George Williams, a big night for

him, one of those players who is looking to impress and maybe make

the cut in Chris Coleman's final 23. How different will the team against

Slovakia look on the opening day of the Euros to that that has just

lined up for the team photo? The two captains, Steven Davis and Ashley

Williams, are just tossing the coin. There will be a minute's silence

following the tragedy in Brussels earlier this week. So, the two sides

will line up around the centre circle. Events this week, which

really put football into perspective, and something which all

the players and both managers talked about.

The two teams gather around the centre circle, which has a Belgian

flag in the middle of it. Wonderfully observed tribute to

those who lost their lives in the Belgian capital this week.

Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey head a list of formidable absentees for

Wales. Adam Matthews makes his first appearance since 2013. George

Williams makes his second start. Northern Ireland arrive on an

eight-game unbeaten run, but they have lost West Brom defender Chris

Brunt with injury. Paddy McNair is recalled to sit in front of the back

three. There is a debut, of course, for former Newport County striker,

Conor Washington. Burnley centre forward Sam Vokes is

the man in form with ten goals in his last 14 games for the

Championship leaders, with Hal Robson-Kanu absent, it's a big

opportunity for him to stake his claim. George Williams, highly-rated

by the Welsh coaching staff, has been beset by injuries, now he is

playing for Gillingham on loan from Fulham. Kyle Lafferty has been the

talisman for Northern Ireland's journey to France. Like Gareth Bale,

has scored seven goals in the qualifiers. Today, he's moved on

loan to Birmingham City. What a night for Conor Washington, from the

ninth tier of English football to the brink of the Euros. The referee

is Steven McLean from Scotland. Wales kick-off with just 78 days to

go to the start of Euro 2016 in France. 2015 a year to cherish for

both of these sides. 2016 could be really special? And these next three

games, this one tonight, Ukraine on Monday, and the final one in Sweden

before we go to France, they will all be vitally important in

preparation for going to the European Championships. It is a good

opportunity for some of these players tonight, the likes of Adam

Matthews, George Williams, David Cotterill, Tom Lawrence, who aren't

guaranteed a place on the plane, they could do themselves a world of

good with a good performance here tonight. First chance for Williams.

Good cross, too. That is a great ball. One thing in

his mind straightaway, as soon as he receives that ball, just put it into

an area, across that six-yard box. The goalkeeper can't come. Sadly,

big Sam Vokes had made the run to the near post. Had he got to the

back stick, he might have got a tap-in. A great cross in by George

Williams. No Bale, no Ramsey, no Collins, no

Dummett. Chris Coleman said this would be a feisty British derby. You

wouldn't expect anything else, would you? They are a really competitive

side under Michael O'Neill. It is a change of shape for us tonight. I

thought Chris might go with four at the back. I fully expect when we do

play Slovakia on June 11th, we will go to a natural three or five,

whatever you want to call it. You have to have a plan b. This is the

Reading player, Gunter - good cross. Vokes went in. And it's put behind

by Paddy McNair. It is a goal kick. The second cross from this

right-hand side. A peach of a cross from Chris Gunter. Good defending by

Paddy McNair. It looks as if it was Sam Vokes who the ball came off

last. Two great crosses from this right-hand side. A sign of things to

come, hopefully. Northern Ireland finished top of

their group in the Euros, finishing ahead of Romania and Hungary. They

are on an eight-match unbeaten run, so they are a side in form. I don't

think George Williams will get away with that nudge on Jonny Evans.

Especially half a yard from the linesman, Rob!

There's Chris Coleman. He's negotiating a new contract at the

moment. Wants it done by the start of the Euros. He says it won't

affect his side even if it is not done. You don't want any

distractions, when there is a question mark over the manager's

future. Is he going to move on after we finish in France? Hopefully, he

will stay on and lead us to the World Cup qualifying campaign. The

players really enjoy playing for him. He's got the best out of them.

What he's achieved in this European campaign has been unbelievable.

We expect to see plenty of substitutions, at least from Wales

tonight. Ledley - the beard is coming on a

treat! I have beard envy. Adam Matthews back in the Wales set-up,

first start since Serbia in 2013. On loan at Bristol City at the moment

from Sunderland. It's a dream chance for Adam

tonight. He's been out of the scene, he's had problems with injury. I do

feel for him tonight because he's playing on the left-hand side. It is

not natural to him. He would much prefer playing at right-back. He

knows he's got an opportunity to shine for Chris and show that he is

more than capable of playing on that left-hand side.

Big Sam has to do better there for me. He has to sort his feet out

quicker. Not the best first touch. The ball was stolen in the end by

Craig Cathcart. A big night for Tom Lawrence as well. He's lost his way

a little bit. His career hasn't really started on loan at Cardiff,

hasn't scored yet. Another opportunity for him. Evans, the

captain, clips the ball forward looking for Lafferty. That will be a

key battle against Ashley Williams. Matthews picks it up for Wales. He

will relish that, Ashley Williams. He will much prefer playing against

someone like Lafferty, who is strong, good upper body strength,

good in the air, rather than a whippet up front.

Their top scorer is quite physical as well. Kyle Lafferty, 16 goals for

him. You backs into Evans as Evans

Johnson little too early. I think Cotterill and George

Williams, they could have quite a lot... Because the way Northern

Ireland are playing, two backs who will get forward. As Michael O'Neill

says, they don't have an X factor player like Gareth Bale. They are

hard-working and organised. They have got good discipline and they

will give their manager everything. They won the group and it was not an

easy group. They were Romania and Finland in there.

We may see Danny Ward, the Liverpool keeper. I thought he might have

started in this game. Maybe he will start on Monday night in Kiev.

Against the Netherlands, Owain Fon Williams is another keeper vying for

a place. Manchester United's McNair. Lafferty

just misses the cross. James Chester will want to impress

the West Bromwich Albion defender. He was not looking when Hennessey

passed him that ball. I don't know why Wayne is passing the ball to

Chester. There is not too much Chester can do except go back to the

goalkeeper. Don't overcomplicate things and try to be too clever,

especially in the opening ten minutes of the game. You are plenty

of time for that. 65th cap the Chris Gunter tonight. -- for Chris Gunter

tonight. A little flick on, well read by

Gareth McAuley. A good, deep run from Ledley. Could not bring him

down, had to try to help it on. At a really good run. -- at a really good

run. Kyle Lafferty and Ashley Williams

may see plenty of each other tonight. Davies, the captain, going

short again. In touching sight of McNair. Dante cleared. Picked out

George Williams. -- Gunter cleared. Matthews has seen plenty of

possession in the opening XI minutes or so.

James Chester has taken a while to settle at West Brom but now he's

getting games regularly. He has found it hard, with Younus Olson,

who had formed a formidable partnership. We know what he brings

to the table when he plays with Wales. But it is a big performance

to the table when he plays with because the way James Collins has

been performing They are really well organised,

Northern Ireland. They are really well organised,

last couple of days when Chris would have made his mind up through the

starting XI would be. That is a great ball, nearly. Spotted the run

of Lawrence. Very quiet in the first few minutes, Tom Lawrence, hardly

had a kick. I think to catch the eye of Chris Coleman is one of the

reasons why he arrived at the Cardiff City Stadium. That is

Michael O'Neill, what a great job he has done, rewarded by a new four

year contract. By the Irish FA. Neither keeper really forced to make

a save in anger. Cathcart apologising for the

mistake. Whales go to the Ukraine on Monday night. You can see it on BBC

Two Wales. Northern Ireland are home to

Slovenia. They have more friendlies than Wales, Chris Coleman doesn't

like them to because friendlies. Wales, after these two games, they

have Sweden at the start of June and then they fly directly into their

base in France, ready for the opener against Slovakia. June 11th. It

Slovakia's last warm up game will be against Northern Ireland.

Space on that left side for Matthews. Good run through by

Ledley. Maybe he should have shot, he was looking inside for Tom

Lawrence. He could definitely have taken the shot on. It is on his left

foot and once again he timed his run to perfection. The weight of the

pass was there for it to be hit first time but for some reason, he

slotted it back. That was a really good opportunity for Joe Ledley,

just put your left foot through that ball and the weight on the path was

perfect for him. -- pass. Joe Ledley scored in the last game against the

Netherlands. You can see what he was trying to do but I don't think he

was aware there was space in front. That is when you need to shout from

one of your team-mates that you do have the time and space to take the

shot on. Norwood with the corner for Northern Ireland. Chester head it

out. It comes to Norwood again, a good cross back in. Matthews was

brave. Really good header. Brave as a lion as you say, he was going to

get clattered by Craig Cathcart. Little chat between the two West

Brom colleagues. Davies has chased it back to halfway

and beyond. George Williams is here. McGovern clears. Great pressure on

George Williams. Taking a quick throw was not a bad idea either.

Evans read it. Wales have had most of the

possession but Northern Ireland have had the corners. Norwood looks up

from the run of Washington. Good defensive header once again by

Chester, the pressure from Washington. 30 might have gone back

to the goalkeeper but maybe that was a bit too risky for him. James

Collins not here tonight, with injury. He has done so well since he

joined up with the squad of Chris Coleman and committed to Wales. He

cannot rest on the laurels of his performances up to now. We have

spoken about the performances of James Collins for West Ham this

season, a big part of why the Hammers are flying in the Premier

League. Good opportunity to finish in the top four.

A lovely run by David ward and Lawrence is up ahead. They get the

free kick. McAuley does not look happy but the referee -- with the

referee, Steven MacLean. Intelligent play by Tom Lawrence. He knows

McAuley is coming to close him down and he plays the ball around the

corner. But it is a clear free kick in the end and I am not too sure

what Gareth McAuley was arguing about. Vastly experienced, can have

no complaints about that. First signs... This is where you really

would want Gareth Bale but up steps... Sadly, he is not here. Up

steps David Wiese George Best four. How ironic it would be if he was to

score here. -- Cotterill. I cannot see David Cotterill shooting from

her. -- here. Cotterill hits it low. Forcing the save. All you can do is

work the goalkeeper with a free kick like that. Plenty of power in it and

making it awkward for McGovern. It bounces right in front of him and

the goalkeeper does well. Two gross players on that back post. Waiting

for a tap in. He is taking Wales's first corner. Chester and Williams

are there in the back. Sam Vokes moves. Bodies everywhere.

Williams might have been the normal target. Williams music back for

Cotterill to cross. -- Williams moves it back. I think that was a

shot as well. You cannot blame him, it all opened out for him and as a

forward, you have to try to score at that back post. If Younis, maybe you

have someone coming in but he gets too much on it. Maybe it was the

wrong option and across would have been better. David Cotterill, hoping

Birmingham City's play-off chasing form will help him make Chris

Coleman's 23. It is a big chance for him tonight. Dallas comes forward. A

good run. He overhit that although Lafferty will pick it up. Shadowed

by Matthews. They get another chance, Kyle Lafferty. Good pressure

by Wales. Dallas has to chase it, lovely backheel for Evans to cross

first time, again, Chester is there. Bit of Northern Ireland pressure

now. Paddy McNair's shot. That would have been some strike from that

distance. Especially when you have David Cotterill closing you down as

well. A bit ambitious? Yes. Six caps for Paddy McNair tonight. Wayne

Hennessey directs operations. Not sure whether he meant that. I think

you did, he had spotted Adam Matthews on the left-hand side. In

the opening 20 minutes, they have done well, Matthews on the left-hand

side. An unfamiliar role for him but he has got forward on every

opportunity, his passing has been good. Ledley forcing Hennessey to

clear long. A round of applause from the

manager. Sam Vokes may feel that Wales will

get more joy if they play it quickly rather than in the air against the

three centre-backs of Northern Ireland. They will be happy with

Cathcart, Evans and McAuley, if that ball comes long from the back and

everything is in front of them, more than happy with that. Played down

the side. David Vaughan did the necessary. Does he go to France?

Just at the minute, for me, just. Experienced, some people might think

there is a question about him. Hoping David Edwards can get himself

fully fit. Some good options. There really are. When you think you have

a squad at 23, three of those are goalkeepers and you can only take 20

outfield players. David Edwards I am sure will buy you a copy after the

game! I just think he deserves to play from his performances in the

qualifying games. You might have to carry the Trego! -- tray though.

Chester has seen plenty of the ball in the goalless opening 25 minutes.

Really, Michael McGovern, the only goalkeeper to have to make a proper

save. If we could change play quickly from

left-to-right and from right-to-left, I think we could get

Adam Matthews and Chris Gunter in all night long. Chris Coleman has

played three centre-backs and two wingbacks. I think that his is

favoured formation. That is what he will start with I think. They will

look really solid when playing that formation. Strong play by the centre

forward, allowing Cotterill to try to make progress. And he does so and

he wins a corner which it will take I am sure. Did well in the end,

David Cotterill, running down an alley on the left-hand side, closed

down by two men with no support. Cleverly in the end displayed the

ball off Craig Cathcart. Chester, Williams, Sam Vokes, they are the

tall players in the area for Wales. After all flights the corner and

Ledley got up high. Battles for it again. You can see what Vaughan was

trying to do. Evans, up to Lafferty and Cotterill steps in, great

awareness by him. He put that cross in for Ledley. He showed the energy

to get himself back and Northern Ireland have a look that they will

counterattack. Pressure from Kyle Lafferty and he mixed the ball off

him. Slightly sloppy pass to Sam Vokes and the possession goes

straight to Northern Ireland. They have scored more goals in the

European qualifiers than Wales did. They are a confident site, eight

games unbeaten. I think they won three of their five away games as

well before losing away to Romania in their campaign. It shows they are

comfortable on the road. They have got a game plan and it works. They

are confident with that game plan. Backheel by Washington.

Davis is really busy in that engine room and again, Norwood looks to be

playing McLaughlin, this time into the feet of Washington. Forcing

Hennessey to react quickly. They ride look back at Conor Washington.

Conor Washington a little bit late, I think his right foot just catches

Wayne Hennessey, not intentional, I don't think. He has never so well,

since leaving Newport. Did really well at Peterborough. Scored goals

for them and then a big-money move to QPR. Found it slightly harder

finding the back of the net in the Championship than he did in the

lower leagues. But full credit to him. There were a few parties among

the Newport County directors and supporters with his big move from

QPR -- to QPR from Peterborough. What was the figure in the end?

Chester skips past two and runs into trouble and Davies sends Washington

towards the penalty area. Well done. James Chester did well. Initially

beats a couple of players but then has a heavy touch and loses

possession and then he is out of position. David Vaughan spotted the

danger. A combination of Chris Gunter and David Vaughan stopped

Washington from maybe getting his first shot on target.

Matthew is looking for a Sam Vokes, just beyond Williams beyond the far

post. He was looking for big Sam in that penalty box but Sam Vokes is

standing still and being picked up. No chance of winning that ball. It

is good experienced defending by McAuley in the end. Might be a bit

too much, to be fair to big Sam. I have been impressed, every time

either George Williams, Cotterill, Adam Matthews down the left, any

time they have had an opportunity to put that all in, they have put it in

and not thought about it twice. The captain finds Cotterill. Patient

play by Wales. This is what Chris Coleman has brought to the side.

They try and work space. Lawrence is making a good run.

They made rather a hash of that. Washington, a little nudge on Ashley

Williams. We could see that from up here. Part two of the warm-ups for

Wales over Easter happens on Monday night, from Kiev, 6:45pm on BBC Two

Wales, that'll be a tough encounter for Chris Coleman's side. I think he

will make a few changes as well, the likes of Ben Davies, Neil Taylor,

likely to feature in that. It will be a change of style and formation

for that game as well. They will probably go back to five at the

back, what we are used to. Never easy, going to Kiev, always a top

place to go. I'd been there myself on a couple of occasions and have

come back empty-handed. That is the last time Wales player

will have the chance to impress in a Welsh shirt before Chris has to make

his decision on the squad to take to France. We do look really

comfortable. That is the kiss of death there! We have looked

comfortable, passing the ball well but I would like to see the passing

slightly quicker, a bit higher tempo, a bit quicker. Northern

Ireland are quite happy dropping back in their numbers, slotting the

ball in until it gets to Sam Vokes's beat. Wales are 17th in the world,

Northern Ireland 28th. Jonny Evans quizzing the referee.

Now trying to switch plate in awful lot, against a very well-organised

Northern Ireland team. Michael O'Neill last night said team is

everything, Steven Davies, the captain, emphasising that as well. I

think if they do that a couple of seconds quicker, then they could get

Chris Gunter and Adam Matthews in. Davies. Cotterill is dutiful with

his defensive duties. Cathcart is up as well. The Watford player.

Lafferty, just as well he was nowhere near that. A comfortable one

for Wayne as well, he should be dealing with that.

Cotterill is wide if Ledley wants it, makes a run inside. Hits it to

George Williams. He dribbles through but stopped by McNair, that

defensive shield in front of the three centre-backs.

The last ten minutes of the first half, Chris Coleman and Michael

O'Neill... Sam Vokes strong. Lawrence now. George Williams wide

again. Williams may shoot but it takes a deflection, up for a corner.

Really well worked, on the right-hand side, a really good,

positive run. By Lawrence. An opportunity for Joe Ledley to get a

shot from about 25 yards. He turned it down once again. Cut inside, one

thing in his might, can I get a shot on goal? It is an goal but it comes

off Cathcart in the end. Cotterill with the corner again. Sam Vokes

with the header. Just wide. Could not quite get enough on it, Sam

Vokes, a good ball in. Tom Lawrence is running away from

the six yard box. He might have scored his first goal for Wales had

that -- had he gone in. Six goals for Wales, the last one was in a

friendly against Iceland here. Rather overshadowed by the goal of

Gareth Bale as I recall. He looks like he has got his confidence back.

He looks like he has got over that mentally and physically. A long time

out with injury. It does take time to get back into the swing but of

course it is helped by... Everything is going through your head, have I

done enough? But until you have that first real test, challenge or locked

tackle or whatever you want to do to test that knee, you still have the

slightest doubt in your mind. Of course, it could be a fantastic end

of the season for him with burly vying for a Premier League place

next season. Ledley has made the run again. Steven Davies is busy. He

gets everywhere. That is the thing when you have got every right back.

Matthews has done well. Try to threaded through but the time he has

pulled the ball onto his right foot, Davies has just got back there.

Again, under pressure from Sam Vokes. Chester should deal with

Norwood. Powers it across. Williams Hennessey.

Norwood. Powers it across. Williams deals with it. Again, good work by

George Williams. No hard feelings on the challenge either. George

Williams just moves it quickly. He sees the challenge coming in from

Norwood, rides it a little bit. On another night, we might have seen a

yellow card, had it been a more defensive game. He was out for a

long time with an anterior cruciate ligament, George Williams. He is

only 29. Every time he has come on as a substitute for Wales, has

really impressed me. His positivity, his strong, forward running,

carrying the his strong, forward running,

Good pace on that ball in. Jumps higher than anybody, times his run.

Times his jump. Just can't quite control the header. Made his debut

against the Netherlands in the summer of 2014. He will tell you all

about the benefits of playing in friendlies or warm-up games, there

is no such thing as a non-competitive game as far as he is

concerned. He has really blossomed since making his bow in Amsterdam.

Over the past 12 or 18 months, this is where we have found it hard,

where we have had plenty of possession and we have to break a

team down. We are better when we are the ones defending in numbers...

Nice control by Washington! He doesn't lack confidence. Full of

confidence then. Brought the ball down superbly. Maybe had a better

option in Conor McLaughlin, who had made a good run down the right-wing

for Northern Ireland. But when you are a goalscorer, from 20 yards,

everything opens up for you, you are always going to have a pot at goal.

A great chance for him, tonight, who would have thought, a man who has

never set foot in Northern Ireland, could be playing for them in the

Euros in the summer. What will Chris Coleman be thinking

about at half-time? He will want a bit more guile in that final third.

A bit better movement by the likes of Williams, Lawrence, even Sam

Vokes. At the minute, everything has been in front of the back five for

Northern Ireland. They are coping well. We have looked dangerous at

times, but we haven't... We have tested Michael McGovern once in the

first half. There have been some good crosses into the six-yard box.

It might be an evening where we will have to be patient until we get the

opening that we need. Talk about missing Gareth Bale. It is games

like this where you miss the guile of Aaron Ramsey. He can unlock doors

for you. He can create something out of nothing. He can see an opening.

No disrespect to the players on the pitch, they haven't quite got that

vision or that ability that Aaron has. The last few seconds of the

first half. This could be the last chance for Wales to make the

breakthrough. They go square rather than knock it forward.

And the half-time whistle goes. Goalless. Chris Coleman will surely

be thinking of some changes during the interval. Sam Vokes had a header

go wide. George Williams has also threatened and looked lively

throughout. David Cotterill forced the one meaningful save from Michael

McGovern. At half-time, we are still waiting for the first goal at the

Cardiff City Stadium, it is Wales 0, Northern Ireland 0.

STUDIO: It will get better! When we get to France! It's not been a

classic in any way, shape or form. It's been a long old season and a

lot of these players are think k about returning to their clubs and

staying injury-free as well, with such a major tournament coming up.

David Cotterill, excellent for Wales once again.

Not much for the fans here to cheer about. Wales perhaps - you have to

say, Kit, Wales were the better side? Chris will be pleased with

that. Tough conditions out there. It was a bit scrappy. We have dominated

possession. And had the better of the chances. Looked really solid in

a different formation. There is a lot of positives without it being a

fantastic game. When we have had the ball, we have kept it and looked

good with it? The two midfielders, David Vaughan and Joe Ledley have

used the ball really well. You want to see more in the attacking third.

Hopefully, if we can get the ball wide, you can use Sam Vokes in the

box. The conditions are not helping either, the pitch is cutting up. It

is. The rain has been torrential throughout. It is very difficult out

there for the players. They have made a good fist of it. It has been

a competitive game. Northern Ireland have put a few tackles in. It has

been fairly feisty. We did say at the beginning that Northern Ireland

will be very hard to beat in the European Championships as well.

Wales had the better of the opening exchanges? Absolutely. They started

very well. We were bright, getting the ball into wide areas, where we

looked dangerous. Initially, the first opportunity, we got it

central, George Williams makes a great run. Thinks about taking on

his full-back, but puts in a fantastic ball. McGovern can't come

for it. Again, a switch of play is crucial. When we do it, we look

dangerous. Great run from Chris Gunter, another good cross. This

time, this is where we want Sam Vokes. It is really good defending

from Cathcart. We have seen some nice touches from Tom Lawrence? We

did. Took a bit of time to get into the game but when he did, he looked

dangerous. George Williams cutting inside and putting in a decent

effort. The first cross, that is where Sam Vokes, you need to be.

That is where we have seen him for Burnley this season? Definitely.

Everyone was a bit cold and no-one took the gamble. I'm sure he will

get himself in there again. He does make that run really well. You take

the gamble and he decided to go near post. It wasn't there for him. What

is also interesting this evening, after 15 minutes, we saw Wales

switching play, switching flanks, Chris Coleman getting the message

out to the boys that it is OK to have a tinker? That's right. You are

playing against their formation with the three centre-backs and the

wing-backs, it is switching the play and doing it quickly. It is the

positions our full-backs take up. Adam Matthews picking up quite high

up the pitch. That was a decent opportunity. Again, we are coming

from Gunter right-back, we move the ball quickly. Adam Matthews, a

higher position this time. Puts in a decent cross. George Williams

couldn't get on the end of it. Dave, some of the crossing tonight from

Wales has been of a high quality. We haven't been able to say that for

the last couple of seasons? No, we haven't. That is how we are going to

score a goal tonight. We have good quality on the wings. David

Cotterill's delivery is brilliant. It has been all season. You have to

use Sam Vokes' size and power in the air. Joe Ledley has made some good

runs as well. He's not been picked up. If the ball gets to him, he will

get a chance. There was a fabulous moment in commentary when David

Cotterill picked up the ball, he said, "I'll be amazed if he shoots

from here!" We are thinking he is going to shoot from here! In these

conditions, and he did it very well. He used the wetness on the surface

to his advantage. It was a difficult chance. You have worked with George

Williams at Fulham. We are talking about a very talented footballer? He

is, he has a natural talent and a great enthusiasm for the game. He

loves the ball in one v one situations. He put in a great cross.

Linking up with Chris Gunter. This is all in the first five minutes. He

looked very dangerous. This is what he loves doing, driving at

full-backs, he can play either side, likes to cut in on his right foot.

As does David Cotterill. He is a bright talent. He is one of the

players who wants to show Chris Coleman that he wants to be on that

plane? I think so. He's started the game very brightly. He wants to grab

it with both hands. He has been a bright spark in this first half. He

has tried to take it to them. Good stuff. Let's go pitchside.

Still raining here, but Iain, what are you making of that first 45?

Both managers will take a lot out of it. If Chris keeps his three wide,

he can pose problems for our back five, if you like, or back three.

George Williams is very bright. Needs to get Vokes in the game.

Paddy McNair has done a good job on Lawrence and Michael O'Neill will be

delighted. Conor Washington has looked bright. Both manager also be

quite pleased. Chris has a lot younger side. It is quite edgy.

Wales have created the better chances. The pitch is not easy to

play on. You have done Michael's job before. What do you do now at

half-time? Do you go for the win or do you look at the bench? I think if

I'm Michael, I would leave it, I wouldn't make too many changes

before 70 minutes. He's got another game where he can have another look

at some individuals. You want to see Conor Washington, give him the whole

game. An opportunity down the side, I would get Lafferty and Conor

Washington down the sides of Ashley Williams, which is easier said than

done. That would be the benefit for us going on to win the game. Chris

Coleman will want George Williams on the ball and try and get Vokes free,

who has been excellent all game. We haven't seen enough of Cotterill

yet. We will wait and see if we get a goal. We are desperate for one

here. Thank you. STUDIO: These are the sort of

conditions he would have loved. He's been listening to Kit there talking

about how good George Williams has been. Very busy couple of days for

us on BBC Wales. From fresh from beating Munster, the

Blues are targeting another win as Treviso come to the Cardiff Arms

Park. The World Half Marathon rolls into the city. On Sunday, we have

Dragons versus Edinburgh. For all the Pro 12 highlights, tune in Scrum

V. If you want to have your say, straight after the match, there is a

simulcast, the Euro 2016 phone-in. You can have your say. Ukraine

versus Wales is live on Easter Monday. Let's bring you up-to-date

with some of the other scores this evening. Some big matches around

Europe tonight. A very sad day for the football

family today following the death of Johan Cruyff, the Netherlands legend

who has died at the age of 68. COMMENTARY: Cruyff! 2-0! And Brazil

on the way out. Cruyff, he must score. He does!

One of the greatest footballers of all time. Very sad day for all

football fans. He's been a tremendous player and a great

ambassador for the sport over many years. It is a sad loss. What has

been amazing is listening to the tributes on radio and on television

over the past couple of hours, not only is he a fantastic football

player, and a coach as well, he won the title with Barcelona, but also a

great man as well. I have heard various stories about what a great

guy he was. He is a real leader, when he played football, when he

managed, he's taken that into every aspect of his life. He has tried to

make the beautiful game even more beautiful and he's done that since

he finished playing. There will be an amazing moment tomorrow. France

are playing the Netherlands. They are planning on stopping the match

in the 14th minute for a minute's applause because that shirt is

synonymous, that number 14, fantastic memories of watching him

play? Iconic for Dutch football. It will be an emotional moment tomorrow

I'm sure. Something that he deserves. Thank you. Let's talk to

you about that commentator's curse. You were saying, "I'll be amazed if

David Cotterill shoots from here." You have been doing it for a long

time? Dave took it on. All you can do from that distance is work the

goalkeeper, which he did. The goalkeeper dealt with it quite well.

I think it's one of those nights where we have to be patient, we have

shown in the past three years that we do struggle to break teams down

when they come here and they get men behind the ball. We are better when

we do that to the opposition. But there have been some bright sparks

and positivity from that side, especially George Williams. He's

been tremendous. Joe Ledley has been strong, making good runs from

midfield. We need more from Tom Lawrence. He's got to be a bit

cleverer in that middle of the park, getting himself a bit more space.

All in all, it has been a good exercise for Chris and his men.

Let's look ahead to the summer. You will be there. How excited are you

about being in some of these wonderful stadiums in France? I

can't wait. It never happened to me as a player. It has been a long

time. I have been excited since we qualified. I couldn't wait for the

draw in December. I am looking forward to Chris naming his 23-man

squad. We are all waiting in anticipation for that. I think the

added bonus is we have England in our group. I'm more than confident

that we can get out of the group. With this squad, with the

togetherness and the spirit that we have got, and the talent, we have

got the x factor in Bale and Ramsey. We are more than capable of making

the quarterfinal. The boys up here want to know, is that your beard or

is that your hood? A bit of both! Thank you very much. Amazing fashion

choice! How excited are you about France as well? We understand you

will be working for the FA W? I can't wait. It is such a buzz in the

country. It will be fantastic. I am looking forward to it. They are

handing out free sticker albums here this evening. I never thought I

would get my hands on an official sticker album. You have two! That is

not true. Technically, not true. I didn't think you would do that live

on air! For these fans, they have been through everything and now they

are about to enjoy the greatest summer they have ever had? The whole

nation will be looking forward to it. It is such a huge thing that has

not happened for a long time. They will embrace it and they will go

there in numbers. Hand on heart, how well do you think Wales will do? I

think the first task is to get out of the group. Once we achieve that,

which I am sure we will do, take it game by game. We have the x factor

in Bale and Ramsey, we have the great togetherness of the squad. I

have been inside the camp. It is a good, strong place to be. Thank you

very much. We will go back to our commentators very shortly. Can Wales

get a goal this second half? COMMENTARY: The start of the second

half hails the changes. Two for Wales, a comeback and a debut. A

huge night for Danny Ward, the Liverpool goalkeeper going off for

Wales, and Conor Washington's debut is over for Northern Ireland.

There's Danny Ward, his debut, he's been on loan at Aberdeen this

season, returned to Liverpool, to vie for that top place with Simon

Mignolet, and as predicted, Danny Ward becomes the latest debutant

capped by Chris Coleman. Conor Washington's debut is over for

Northern Ireland. He's been replaced by Jamie Ward of Nottingham Forest.

He's probably done enough to impress Michael O'Neill. So, the first half,

a clutch of changes for Wales. Many more to come. Andrew Crofts is a

player I know very well. He's found it harder since he's moved to

Brighton. Full of energy, strong as an ox. Really competitive in that

middle of the park. If he's asked to do a job, he will certainly do it.

He lacks a bit of quality at times, but he will give you everything. I

am looking forward to seeing Danny Ward. I haven't seen him play. I

have heard so many good things about him. He had a strong period on loan

at Aberdeen. So looking forward to seeing him and I think Chris has

given him a half to impress, no point bringing him on with five or

ten minutes to go. Give him a decent half. Let him get tested, let him

show what he is capable of doing. Out of him and Owain Fon, he is the

number two now. Former Wrexham player, of course. Went to Liverpool

without playing a first team game for Wrexham. That is how highly

Liverpool rated him. Has benefitted hugely from that loan spell at

Aberdeen this season. He gets his chance to impress around put

pressure on Wayne Hennessey now. There won't be any change of

formation and Andrew Crofts will take the Joe Ledley role. I would

like to see Tom Lawrence getting closer to Sam Vokes. Big Sam has

been isolated. I think Tom at times plays a bit too deep. Ian Rush. A

Welsh legend. He might have scored by now. He will be as excited as

anyone. Missed out on the World Cup when Wales lost to Romania. The

cross comes into the Wales box. Williams has to deal with it. He

does that so well. He anticipates where the ball is going to land.

Always gets himself in there. Lawrence has a bit of space to

attack McLaughlin. Goes on a run. This is what Tom Lawrence does.

Gareth McAuley stepped in that time. McAuley is on the ball again. Two

West Brom players at the heart of that Northern Ireland defence, Jonny

Evans and McAuley. Craig Cathcart from Watford. So they have a Premier

League defence have Northern Ireland. Loads of experience as

well. Yeah. George Williams. He shined brightly in that first half.

Sloppy pass from Crofts as well. It was quite a basic pass, straight

into him, but too much on it. A bit tight down this near

touchline. A touch for Ward of Nottingham

Forest, Jamie Ward. There has been a slight change in

Northern Ireland's formation. It looks like they are playing Kyle

Lafferty on his own up front with Ward coming on to the right-hand

side. Lafferty will get plenty of support from midfield with Davis,

McNair... Lafferty has forced the save from Hennessey. Lafferty was

smelling his 17th goal for his country after a sharp run by Jamie

Ward. Really good tackle, really good run by Ward. Lafferty doesn't

really get hold of that shot. Hasn't had a sniff in all honesty up till

now. The ball falls kindly to him and he hits the ball into the

ground, which takes the pace off the ball. It's a comfortable save for

Danny Ward in the end. Adam Matthews had to make a great tackle. There

was no room for error with that challenge. Can't mistime that. You

are right. This is Ward again. Every time Wales gets possession you

see Northern Ireland, they ferry back... They just get back into

their own half as quick as they can. They are a really difficult nut to

crack. I think we have shown that in the last campaign, with the goals

that we - we didn't concede in the ten games - the really tough team we

are to breakdown these days. We don't score as many as I would

like. When you are

think he's found his form once again and all of a sudden, Swansea have

put a run together, which has got them out of trouble.

Crofts was into strongly for Steven McLean.

I think I said Hennessey earlier, it was Danny Ward who made the

excellent save from Lafferty, and collects now. That will have made

him feel a lot more comfortable. Michael O'Neill will be disappointed

with that attack. Jamie Ward down this right-hand side, puts a nice

ball into the box, plenty of height on it, but only one player in a

white shirt in that Welsh penalty area, Kyle Lafferty. You are not

going to score with the one forward in there.

Good pressure again by the Birmingham City player.

We keep playing backwards. They can't play the killer pass you need.

They have looked pretty comfortable, that back three. Everything has been

in front of them. McNair is the extra safety policy as well. Doesn't

venture too far forward from those back three, does he? Lafferty has

pulled wide. Kyle Lafferty finds himself isolated

in the Welsh penalty area. He is trying an impossible shot from that

left-hand side. Had no support whatsoever. He had to go himself.

An impossible angle to score from. Chris Coleman. I wonder whether he

is contemplating another change. That looks like the book they rip a

sheet of paper out for the subs. I don't think Tom Bradshaw is going

to feature. He has been a slight doubt. Chris Coleman was intimating

he will probably see more action in Ukraine. You feel this is an ideal

sort of opportunity for someone who ask in good goalscoring form. To

play alongside Sam Vokes. Not the easiest pitch either, it is

raining heavily in Cardiff this afternoon. It has had problems with

the Cardiff City hitch. -- pitch. I think he needs to move the ball

quicker. Slightly too slow. Looking to switch it again to

Matthews. Her they work really hard just to get

the past couple of players, to get the ball to the likes of Sam Vokes

and Lawrence. Could get any type of service, finally got it to Sam Vokes

and all he could do was play it all the way back to Chester.

Northern Ireland being really effective. If they go nine unbeaten,

it will be the first time in 30 years they have done that.

That is a risky ball by David Cockerel. That ball has to travel a

long distance out towards Chris Gunter. -- David Cotterill. Matthews

got across to concede the first corner of the second half. Northern

Ireland's fourth of the game. Just get an extra pass in, give it to

James Chester who can have a touch and then slide it out to Chris

Gunter. About 700 Northern Ireland fans have made the trip. They are at

the right end if Northern Ireland should make a breakthrough here.

Work for the debutant Danny Ward to do. It is taken short. Not up bad

idea. It is Craig Cathcart. He drives it home and Northern Ireland

have the breakthrough. A lovely cross in by Paddy McNair, well

worked corner. Northern Ireland have profited and they take the lead.

Really good finish, instinctive by Craig Cathcart. He got onto that

ball nice and quickly. It is a lovely little corner, we don't

really deal with the first cross that has been put in and we get

caught in possession and Tom Lawrence reacts to slowly and on

comes Craig Cathcart on the half term, on the half volley and there

is no chance that will go past it before he died. -- da use of Gothic

-- before he dives. It is the second goal for his country.

You cannot look at your goalkeeper, especially on this slippery surface.

As soon as Cathcart got that ball down, it skidded off the pitch and

got past the goalkeeper before he saw it, but it was avoidable.

Disappointed, Tom Lawrence will be, that he got beaten to that ball. A

real test now. Northern Ireland were hard to break down when the game was

0-0, now they have something to defend so here we go. Changes are in

the offing for Wales. Johnny Williams takes orders from Chris

Coleman. Tom Lawrence makes way. A big night for Lloyd Isgrove and a

lot of work for the substitutes to do. I am surprised George Williams

have been taken off. He has not done as well as what he did in the first

45 minutes but I think still he has been a bright spark, down the

right-hand side, looking to make things happen, always been an

option, always wanting the ball. Northern Ireland, danger here,

having taken the lead, they now have another corner.

Norwood, the Reading player, takes it. Heading right in the box as

well. Wales got away with that one but you can just see how they made

progress, can't you? They have got a way of playing, they have discipline

in their performance. Each individual knows his role in the

team. When it has brought you the success that you have, you have to

stick with it. It winds you games, picks you points up, wins you

qualifying campaigns. I know we have got some big hitters out tonight but

we have not been good enough going forward up until now we have lacked

quality in the final third. Some great balls in the opening few

minutes. It has been a frustrating night for Sam Vokes because he has

not had... He has not had a chance to impress. He has had to wait

patiently. Robson-Kanu leaving that number nine role and he had a chance

tonight. It has been really difficult and once again, you can

see his frustration. It is so important when you are a lone

striker, you have to make that ball stick. Cotterill has worked hard. It

is difficult to change any sort of formation though. With a few options

on the bench. Johnny William is flying in there. I think the pitch

played a big part in that challenge as well but Northern Ireland leading

1-0. Wales lost their last friendly here against the Netherlands. Chris

Coleman will not want this to remain. It is not the farewell that

they wanted unless things can change. Sam Vokes, holding the ball

up, that is what they have to do but then they'd give it away sloppily.

This is Johnny Williams. Taken out by McLaughlin. Nice and positive,

what you would expect from Jonny Williams, trying to lift the crowd

up. Cotterill scored from a similar position against site -- Cyprus. It

has eluded everybody from this position. Cotterill with the free

kick, Wales need a goal. McGovern collectors. Too flighty. You are

inviting the goalkeeper to make that ball his own which is exactly what

Michael McGovern does. He sees it all the way. And a bit of pressure

from the Welsh captain Ashley Williams but it is a comfortable

take for him in the end. There is movement on the Northern

Ireland bench. They might be contemplating another change.

Dallas thought he was in then. So did I. I thought there was a nudge

of James Chester by Kyle Lafferty. A highly successful night for Michael

O'Neill so far. Can he stretch that unbeaten run to nine games? He only

one won -- Keown won one of his first several games as Northern

Ireland manager. Of those you have to give credit to the Irish FA. Any

manager would have lost his job with that track record. They kept faith.

He has never won and away friendly, Michael O'Neill.

I would not be too concerned if we do lose the game tonight. That would

be three on the spin and then you go to Kiev which is a tough place to go

and our last friendly... You don't want to be losing to France. You

want to go in there with a bit of my mental, covered with this high. You

can't read too much into friendly. I totally at the stat that. Still time

but Wales need to step it up, no doubt. Simon Church might be coming

on. Vaughan steps in. There is no lack

of commitment. Just a bit of composure. There is no lack of

effort or commitment, desire, it is just that lack of quality. The

goal-scorer Cathcart, his second goal for Northern Ireland, his 25th

cap tonight. Don't hit the ball much better than that.

It looks like Joe Allen is about to enter the fray. This is Jonny

Williams. McGovern is on the outside. A good

run. Crossed over the head of Sam Vokes, comes back over to Matthew so

he can lord it back in. Richards in the penalty area. Jonny Williams,

can he get it in... May be a chance... Good goalkeeping by

Michael McGovern. He spots the danger and comes out nice and brave.

A wheelie good pass which opens at the northern Irish defence. A good

cross into the back post by Chris Gunter.

Ready-made for him, had he pulled himself back. Good pace down that

right-hand side. Chris Gunter Imbula Bluecoat -- in

behind the defence again. McLaughlin heads it away. Every

player except Ward in that half. Cathcart, the goal-scorer. Does not

get too much on the clearance. Still not cleared by the Northern Ireland

defence. A teasing ball from Chris Gunter but McLaughlin deals with it

and Matthews gets there first. Time for Joe Allen turn his 24th cap.

Liverpool player replacing David Vaughan.

Joe Allen had one of the more unusual press conferences this week

when asked about his appearance on a chicken magazine.

This is Croft. Crofts made a bit of a hash of that, would be too happy

with that. He has scored, a long time ago against Malta in Llanelli.

His one goal for Wales. Joe Allen said he had had an OK season at

Liverpool. He has got his fans with him. He has done well in the Cup

competitions. I member that penalty he took against Stoke in the

semifinal, he showed a lot of courage. He has taken a lot of stick

from the local fans. He is so valuable for this Welsh side. So

valuable in the midfield, breaking play up, keeping things nice and

simple, loads of energy. He is on the ball now. Chris Gunter has been

steady again. Once again, the ball played in front of Jonny Williams.

You need these three centre halves for Northern Ireland running towards

their own goal, that is where we need them. You are facing a team

like this, you do get the opportunity to put that ball down

both channels. Jonny Evans makes way, his 46th cap in the bag, so is

Paddy McNair. It is a player from Dundee United going on for McNair

and that is Daniel Lafferty so a change at the back for Northern

Ireland where they have looked technically solid. Let's see whether

Wales can make anything of that. They might need a change in

formation for them as well. With a flat back four maybe, now.

It is only a couple of yards, that is all you have to do, but it is too

easy to walk back and when the ball is played up to you, you react and

you have to get yourself an side. You are just giving the ball

straight back to the opposition. Well, they are happy. They start

their European campaign against Poland in Nice, the day after Wales.

A low effort from a half cleared corner, that is Cathcart on the ball

now, the Watford defender. Williams is under that one.

They have two step it up, we keep saying it, they have to add more

pace to the game. We have seen some big -- missing some big players. At

the minute, they look like a team who has not got the belief that they

are capable of breaking this strong northern Irish side down. They are

happy to keep the ball and keep things nice and simple but have not

really got the belief they can cause them problems. I can't even remember

Michael McGovern having a shot to save in the second half. Sam Vokes,

his evening over. Simon Church who is on loan in Aberdeen at the

moment, comes on for his 34th cap. Simon Church, a totally different

type of player to Sam Vokes. He will run the channels, her he has got

that pace. Two central defenders on for Northern Ireland now. Simon

Church will add a lot more pace up front. I feel sorry for Sam Vokes

though. It has been a tough night for him. Playing against two centre

halves, but three. They have been a few crosses that have gone in. If

you are six foot three, get yourself...

Jonny -- Lloyd Isgrove wins the throw in. Allen cuts up the

clearance. Out numbered though. Lafferty pulls away from Chester,

who reacts quickly. Good play by the Liverpool keeper. He could see James

Chester was in trouble. Lafferty on his shoulder. Everything is too

straight, too narrow. Not enough options, not enough movement.

Williams. A good ball in. He was where he had to be. He does not make

contact. Clever play by Jonathan Williams. A lovely little ball into

Simon Church but Craig Cathcart, good defending, he comes across,

sees the danger and he does not to stop Simon Church from aiming and

bringing Wales level. But better, better by Wales.

He has done well again. Looks like a one-man rescue mission at the

moment, Jonny Williams. Cotterill. A corner is forced. Not class

defending. A really good ball in, teasing, by Cotterill. Just when you

thought maybe there was half a chance by Lloyd Isgrove to get a

left footed volley in, but right leg of McLaughlin means it is a corner.

Can Wales give the 20,000 plus crowd something to shout about? Cotterill

with the corner. It comes out to Matthews. He lobs it

in. A header that was easily collected by McGovern. Not going to

get much joy in the air when there is the Northern Ireland defence.

A chance to move forward again. get at him. Just adds to the

experience in the Northern Ireland squad. The average age is 27, six

players over the age of 30 in the Northern Ireland squad. Wales are

losing but the fans are singing the anthem, as is their way. That

unforgettable night against Belgium. Definitely trying to make things

happen, Wales. Chris Gunter into the middle. The ball is hoisted clear.

Unlike Northern Ireland's goal... You make your own luck. You do.

Mackay is across their into the penalty area. -- McKay. Aggressive

from Joe Allen. A quickly taken free kick.

Seven minutes to go. Plenty of noise from the Wales fans, it has been a

disappointing night. Not the way they wanted their farewell to go. If

anybody is going to make things happen, it you think it would be

Williams. Look at the second half and he has been the one bright spark

for me, Jonathan Williams. And as soon as I say that... He has tried

to make things happen. Taking a lot of time to get up but I think he has

had a bang in the face. Ashley Williams looks for Church, Lloyd

Isgrove taken off his feet as he makes progress into the Northern

Ireland penalty area. An offside flag went up.

Plenty of concern on the face of the Wales manager, Chris Coleman. Defeat

by Netherlands in the last friendly. Looking defeat in the face here. He

will not be happy. Make no excuses either. He will still believe this

squad, that he had got in his hands... A deflection! I think

Church would have been offside anyway. Yes, went a bit too early,

even though it did take a deflection off one of the Irish players.

Slightly too high for Simon Church. Just offside, just offside. Behind

him, it was too high anyway, Simon Church could not finish it.

They are not lacking effort or commitment, just a bit of know-how

at times. Doesn't help when you are without your two most influential

creative attacking players in Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale. But you

never know, injuries can strike at any time. And it does give the

players who have come in an opportunity to impress and I think

George Williams did that in the opening 45 minutes. I think Jonathan

Williams has come on in this second half and he has been lively and

bright. He has always been an option for whoever is on the ball. He has

got himself involved in the second half. Apart from that, not too many

positives. Jonny Williams sent tumbling now. Saying that, we did

look comfortably eat defensively until the goal.

He has got protection there. Lloyd Isgrove again. Passed through to

Johnny Williams. -- Jonny. It is not a contest, is it?

That left arm of McAuley comes across Jonathan Williams. He leans

into him. You're not keeping that ball! Hard life! He has done well,

Rob, but he will keep on getting in there. Williams or Williams in the

final 23. Pick between the two, you think. It is the toss of a coin,

isn't it? I don't envy Chris Coleman whatsoever! Having to break the

squad down to 23 players. They few weeks ago I said to him, have you

picked your 23? He said yes, every other day! He keeps changing his

players. You would probably say 18 or 20 are certain. Maybe two or

three places up for grabs. You don't see too many coming from

out of the blue. Williams is caught, there. Maybe Tom Bradshaw, if he

finishes the season strongly for Walsall. Terrific season last season

for the Saddlers and he has done brilliantly again. He could get his

opportunity on Tuesday night. Carrying a little injury which is

why Chris Coleman has not risked him tonight. Pressure here for Wales

belatedly, penalty! Well, Simon Church shows that if you don't buy a

ticket, you have no chance of winning the lotto. I think it was

McCauley who brought him down. Silly challenge by Gareth McAuley. Can you

get a shot on goal? I'm not too sure. I think he moves the ball

clumsily and Gareth McAuley slides in. What a chance this is for Simon

Church. So, Simon Church to change the atmosphere at the Cardiff City

Stadium. CHEERING

No problem at all! Simon Church, the substitute, proves the hero in

Wales's farewell game. His third goal for his country and Wales draw

level with just a minute or so to go. A very well taken penalty by

Simon Church. Kept his cool, terrific penalty. No chance for

Michael McGovern, even though he went the right way. Simon Church was

brought down by Gareth McAuley, you can have no complaints with the

decision. Well done Simon Church. In good form for the club he is at.

Scoring goals on a regular basis up north in Scotland. Shane Ferguson is

on for Northern Ireland in place of Stuart Dallas. Four minutes of added

time. Four minutes of added time. What can I say about the atmosphere

changing? Now you think, and Wales go on and win it? -- can Wales? I

know Chris Coleman felt it was really important there that Simon

Church said he would take a loan to Aberdeen because he wanted to play

games to be on the plane for France. He wasn't getting a game at MK Dons.

You're talking about a man who was really struggling in the

Championship and he has gone to a good club in Aberdeen. They have a

chance of maybe winning the league title with Aberdeen. Will there be a

twist in the tale here? -- Gunter into the box. Suddenly it

sounds like a derby game! The tempo is much quicker. It is all hustle

and bustle. Wales pushing forward, trying to get this winning goal now.

Grandstand finish by Wales. Ashley Williams is still out there.

You've got to give them one thing, Iwan Roberts, they don't lack

spirit. They have huffed and puffed but hadn't really caused too many

problems for the Northern Irish defence. Unless they can do

something dramatic, Northern Ireland's wait for a win over Wales

goes on. Their last victory was in May of 1980 at Ninian Park, when

Noel Brotherston scored the winner. Williams clears. Simon Church... I

actually had him in my 23 on the BBC Wales sports website. Iwan Roberts,

Myself and Danny Gabbidon picked our 23 to go on the plane to France.

You're mentioning that for any reason...

I think it all depends how many forwards Chris is thinking of

taking. These are the questions that will get answered in the next few

weeks. Does he gamble in who you takes?

The dying seconds. Iwan Roberts, what will Chris Coleman be thinking?

He will be glad that, I won't say they have stopped the rot, but he

knows we can play a lot better, he knows we are badly missing the big

names in this side. He will be pleased with George Williams in the

first half and Jonathan Williams in the second half. To be fair to the

boys, they've kept going. They haven't let their heads drop and

they have got there wards in the end. One last chance may be. One

last chance for a winner. Red shirts in the box waiting for Cottrill to

deliver. The dying seconds at the Cardiff City Stadium. Wales's last

game at home before the Euro 2016 finals. Isgrove with the header

wide, and that is probably it. A minimum of four minutes promised.

Chris Coleman and Michael O'Neill both have something to take out of

tonight. Honours even between Northern

Ireland and Wales. Chris Coleman and Michael O'Neill embrace. Northern

Ireland took the lead through Craig Cathcart, his second goal for his

country. Wales showed real spirit and had their hero in Simon Church.

He went north to Aberdeen to show Chris Coleman his desire to play

first-team football and to score goals and he took confident penalty

to save the day here at the Cardiff City Stadium. Chris Gunter moved

into the top 15 in Wales caps. I'm sure he will want to play in the

Ukraine on Monday night, which will be a tough game, Iwan Roberts, but

there were some bonuses for Chris Coleman? Yes, when you think of the

absentees from this well squad and you look at the Northern Irish team,

they were without Chris Brunt but they had a majority of their squad

that won Group F for them. He will take some positives from this game

but he knows there is a tough test on the horizon come Monday night.

They have the journey to Kiev, not an easy place to go. They have been

on a couple of occasions and come back empty-handed. They are the team

on a high after winning their place in France but they are there and it

is never easy playing Ukraine away from home. There is no doubt that

Wales Dulac something when they're superstars are not here, notably

Gareth Bale, who would not miss the world's most expensive footballer?

As well as Aaron Ramsey and James Collins and plenty of others missing

too, Andy King, at the Wales players who were on duty stepped up to the

plate after the break, none more so than Simon Church. The spot kick

hero for Wales is ready to speak to our reporter.

Simon, it seemed like it was going to be a sombre farewell but you got

the all-important goal? Yeah, it's nice to get the equalising goal.

It's tough, it was a tough game. They obviously deserve everything

they have done through the campaign to get to where they are. A

difficult second half but you didn't drop your head, you kept it going?

Yes, we wanted to put in a good performance for the fans on the last

time they see us. Many decisions to be made now by Chris Coleman about

his final squad, are you confident you will be in there? Hopefully. All

I've got to do is keep playing well and score some goals and we will

see. A very competitive team and it's a great squad to be part of.

Congratulations. Well done Simon Church. He held his

nerve and tucked away the penalty nicely. Tricky conditions here at

the Cardiff City Stadium, very wet and windy. It turned into a decent

home nations clash in the last five minutes of the game.

Chris Coleman didn't look happy at all chewing his gum on the

touchline. Wales looked like they were travelling to Ukraine on Monday

with three defeats in a row under their belts, but Simon Church tucked

away a great penalty. Was it a penalty? I think so. Simon Church

did really well just courting the foul really and then finished it

with aplomb. The quality of crossing was very good tonight, David? It was

and unfortunately we didn't quite get on the end of one of them. All

the four wide players looks really good. When you have the likes of Sam

Vokes and Gareth Bale when he comes back so powerful in the air, it's

good to have. It turned into a decent home Nations clash in the

last ten minutes. I thought in the first half we were comfortable

either better team but in the second half we struggled to get going. The

goal lifted everybody, the players and the crowd as well. It was decent

and I think the crowd will be pleased with it. The defending was a

bit unfortunate. Chris Gunter was marking him man-to-man. You see

Gunter highlighted. He is tied to him and just gets a bit caught up

with the ball. It falls nicely to Craig Cathcart. That was the

difference, balls were falling nicely for Northern Ireland. Nothing

was really falling for us. A bit disappointed from a defensive point

of view but he finished it really well. I think the boys will be

disappointed. Tom might be disappointed on the edge of the box

he got caught with his shoulders square. But Craig Cathcart, what a

brilliant finish. He kept it down and got it past the goalie. When Joe

Allen came on, suddenly Wales had a bit of class in the middle of the

park. They did. The boys the forward doing OK but Joe is instrumental to

the way Wales play. His batting is really pivotal to the way the team

plays. He upped the tempo a bit. It was slow until his introduction.

What is Joe Allen like to play against? He's a terrific player.

When he came on he started to dictate the play. One of his main

attributes is breaking up the play. He won a few tackles but he is such

a good passer. A few times he didn't take the safe option, hit broke into

the number ten area and broke the line. You know Chris Coleman very

well. Will he be disappointed tonight, Kit? Yet again Wales have

said they played well but gave away possession a bit? We gave away

possession quite a bit. The conditions were treacherous at times

but there were too many cheap giveaways. It wasn't really a

particularly balanced side. He was looking at a lot of different

options tonight. Overall he will be pleased. How difficult is it as a

footballer playing in these conditions but also in a long season

knowing what is ahead of you? It is and friendlies can turn into a

mundane affair. When you are out there, once it falls into that

rhythm it's hard to get out of it. The boys will have one eye on the

Euros and they want to impress. At the same time you don't want to risk

it and think about injury. Michael O'Neill, it will be interesting to

see what he says in his post match news conference because let's face

it, Simon Church is going nowhere and Gareth McAuley, it's a clumsy

challenge. It was but Churchy sort of courted the foul. He just takes

that touched there. He drew the foul and it was a clear-cut penalty but

the tackle didn't need to be made. Definite penalty? It was. I thought

it was a poor decision by Gareth McAuley. That is what Churchy

brings, clever runs. Simon Church doing very well, he has gone to

Aberdeen where they are chasing down champions Celtic in the Scottish

Premiership and he has got four goals this season, he has put his

hand up tonight? Definitely, just by doing that move, he wasn't getting

enough football at MK Dons, just cameo appearances. He wanted to make

the move and get himself into this squad and it has proved to be a very

good move for him. And being able to put up his hand and say I'm having

this, lads. He's a terrific player, he's just been a bit unfortunate in

the last few years since he left Reading. A very well taken penalty.

He's an excellent finisher and I always expect him to score. Let's

hear from the Northern Ireland Gold -- goal-scorer, Craig Cathcart.

We'll go into any game prepared and knowing we want to do our best and

it was no different, playing against another team that has qualified for

the Euros. We want to repair well for the main tournament. On a

personal note, your second international goal? Yes, it's all is

nice. I scored my goal is to drips ago -- my first gold two trips ago.

Disappointed it is not the winner but that is the way things go

sometimes. You have another game before France, on Monday evening?

That's it. We worked on the 3-5- two in the first half and managed to

change formation. That is key for these games, getting the right

tactics. Who will be the happier coach this evening, kit, Chris

Coleman or Michael O'Neill? I don't think there will be much in it, I

think they will both be slightly pleased. They probably learnt a few

things and maybe slightly more Chris because he has probably looked at

more of his potential fringe players. The interesting thing about

Northern Ireland is that they flood the midfield, they will be really

tough to crack in the European Championships even though they will

be taking on the European champions, Germany? They will do and against

the tough opposition it will sue them even more because they can

defend for long spells and then use their pace on the counterattack. A

bit like we play, to a certain degree. They look really strong,

they have a strong spine to the team. What is the mood like in that

changing room? I think we are a bit relieved to have got the equaliser

late on. Would have been disappointing to end with a loss.

Fair play to the boys, they kept playing to the end and we got a draw

in the end. What was the gaffer's reaction? I think he focused on the

positives. The application was there. We got a couple of new caps

which is great for those lads and nice to welcome a couple of players

back to the squad who have not been here for a while as well.

Disappointing second half -- first half, a bit to work on before you

face Ukraine? Yes, a bit to work on but that is what these friendlies

are for. Preparations have begun for France and we can look forward now

to travelling away to what will be a tough game in Kiev. A different

experience, different challenge? Yes, a different challenge. I think

that was the idea with these friendlies, two very different

teams. I think that is what you need going into a tournament like the

Euros. We made sure we give everything in that game as well. --

we will make sure. Joe Allen, who changed the game, you have to say.

Who were the standout players for you tonight, Kit? George Williams,

Jonny Williams, Ashley Williams was superb at the back as always. And

Joe Allen changed the tempo when he came on. Chris, happy with those 20

minutes? When you represent your country you want to make sure you

perform and I thought our lads showed pride. It was always going to

be tough. Seven or eight players missing who would normally start,

who have been starting in the campaign. Danny Ward has got his

first cap, Lloyd bit more difficult for me tonight.

Shaun MacDonald is someone I really like who has done well in

Bournemouth. Hughes, he has got like who has done well in

few changes for the Ukraine game. There have another tricky game in

Ukraine. So what do we know about Ukraine?

The game between Ukraine and Wales will be played in the capital city,

Kiev. One of their most famous players is former Chelsea and AC

Milan player Andriy Shevchenko. COMMENTATOR: What a moment! National

treasure. Their star players include their strikers and midfielder Andriy

Yarmolenko. It is ideal preparation for Wales because they will be

facing Russia in their group at Euro 2016.

Some big games across Europe this evening.

A good win for Scotland tonight in the Czech Republic. All square in

the biggest game of all, Italy and Spain. Who's going to win the

European Championships, Kit? Wales. Wales! Obviously. But Ukraine will

be another good test for Chris Coleman's side? Definitely, he will

earn a bit more and get closer to that final 23 he keeps talking

about. How will the boys be feeling after tonight? I think the majority

will be pleased. It is obviously good to get the result. I know they

say results don't matter in friendlies but it's nice to come

away with a positive in that respect and that goal will give us a bit

more confidence against the Ukraine. Michael O'Neill says he's not

bothered about the result when it comes to international friendlies,

but Chris is, isn't he? I think Michael O'Neill is, to be totally

honest. You never like to lose a game for your country. He obviously

puts more onus on a competitive game, as everyone would. But they

are important and you don't like to lose them, but at this stage it's

more about finding things out and looking at a few different things

and getting closer to that starting XI for the first game. Essential

that Wales learn to live without Gareth Bale or Aaron Ramsey, because

if they pick up an injury in a major tournament, they do have to cope.

The turnaround is so quick between those matches. You need to learn to

cope without certain players. You can't put all your reliance on

certain players in case they are not available. Chris has maintained all

the way through, Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey, Dave Edwards... Fantastic

players. But if they're not available, we need other players who

we cant use and play to our strengths. When are you hoping to be

back, Dave? I'm hoping to be back in training in the next ten days. I've

kept myself fit, looked after myself. Hopefully it went take me

long to get to speed. He turned down a half-time biscuit, he's looking

after himself, unlike you! I had one, yeah! Overall thoughts? Very

pleased, yeah. It was a good work-out. We looked at quite a few

things tonight, players and different formations. Very pleased.

Which players stood out for you? The two players who came on and at the

end, Jonny Williams and Simon Church, they did well. Johnny

started to run at players and make things happen, and then Simon Church

with his clever runs and winning and taking the penalty. You can have

your say on BBC Wales in a very special simulcast this evening. It

is Ukraine against Wales live on BBC Two Wales on Tuesday at 6:45pm.

1-1 it finished here and Wales are on the road to Euro 2016.

COMMENTATOR: Cottrill hits it, low...

Craig Cathcart drives it home and Northern Ireland have the

breakthrough!