Charles takes charge to hand O’Neill winning start

TWO goals from Bolton striker Dion Charles gave Michael O’Neill a winning start to his second spell as Northern Ireland manager in Serravalle. It was a comfortable rather than comprehensive victory over the lowestranked team in the world. But O’Neill will be satisfied to launch his Euro 2024 qualifying campaign on a positive note in Group H. Not surprisingly, Northern Ireland dominated and Charles got his first senior international goal in the 24th minute when he stabbed home at the far post from Conor Washington’s cross. He added another 10 minutes after half-time with a header from Jamal Lewis’ ball into the box. Nicola Nanni had the ball in the net for the group minnows but it was ruled out for a marginal offside. ‘I’m delighted with the win. These games are never easy,’ said O’Neill, whose side face Finland in Belfast on Sunday. ‘Everyone expects you to win but you have to deal with an opposition full of pride.’