By Chris Wheeler for MailOnline
Published: 21:36 GMT, 21 March 2019 | Updated: 21:59 GMT, 21 March 2019
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It's been a long wait for Niall McGinn since he made his international debut more than a decade ago, but the Aberdeen winger’s first goal at Windsor Park set up a valuable Group C win.
Manager Michael O’Neill had emphasised the importance of victory in the first two games against Estonia and Belarus, with Germany and Holland waiting ominously later in the campaign.
And just when it looked like being a night of frustration in Belfast, McGinn broke the deadlock in the 56th minute to calm Northern Ireland nerves.
Steven Davis scored the second goal of the game to put Northern Ireland in full control from the penalty spot
The midfielder looked concerned as the goalkeeper managed a touch but he could not prevent the goal
The home side came together in celebration after doubling the lead in front of the crowd at Windsor Park
Niall McGinn clenched his fist in celebration after opening the scoring for Northern Ireland against Estonia
Kyle Lafferty teed up McGinn and he made no mistake, slamming his finish home with a powerful finish
Windsor Park erupted as the hosts took a well earned lead having dominated the game against their opponents
Northern Ireland (4-3-3):
Peacock-Farrell 7; Dallas 7, Cathcart 6, J Evans 6.5, Lewis 6.5; McNair 5, Davis 7, Saville 6.5; McGinn 7.5 (McLaughlin 84), Lafferty 7 (Magennis 76, 6.5), Jones 8 (Ferguson 81)
Unused substitutes:
Flanagan, Boyce, McGovern, Thompson, Ballard,
