Northern Ireland scramble draw at home to Cyprus as pressure grows on Baraclough

Jonny Evans struck in stoppage time to rescue a 2-2 draw for Northern Ireland at home to Cyprus but only after some fans had repeated their calls for manager Ian Baraclough to go.

Evans bundled the ball home in the third minute of time added on as Northern Ireland came back from 2-0 down, having trailed to goals in either half from Andronikos Kakoulli before Paddy McNair offered hope in the 72nd minute.

There were chants of 'We want Bara out' on the hour mark, and though the late fightback raised spirits, a draw was not the result Northern Ireland or Baraclough needed.

Before kick-off Northern Ireland fans came together to remember the great Billy Bingham, who led them to back-to-back World Cups in the 1980s, but after the minute’s applause what followed was a display to pile pressure on the current man in charge.

Six years to the day since Northern Ireland’s first game of Euro 2016, there was scant evidence to suggest Baraclough is building a side capable of getting back to the tournament in 2024.

They started the month targeting top spot in Group 2 and a Euro qualifying play-off place. There may well be a play-off to come, but if there is it will be to avoid relegation to League D.

IFA president Patrick Nelson used his programme notes to admit results had been disappointing, but noted this is "a squad in transition", saying Baraclough’s success in bringing young players through is well documented.

But it was clear that Nelson’s patience is not matched by large sections of Northern Ireland’s loyal support.

Their side started with plenty of positive intent. McNair, back after injury kept him out of Thursday’s 3-2 loss to Kosovo, wanted a penalty with nine minutes gone as he tumbled in box after a smart ball forward by Dan