Danielle Maxwell hopes positive World Cup qualifier performance can act as Northern Ireland 'stepping stone'
Northern Ireland star Danielle Maxwell hopes an opening World Cup qualifying victory over Malta can act as a “stepping stone” after a dream start to Michael McArdle’s managerial reign.
McArdle was appointed as Tanya Oxtoby’s permanent successor last month and wasted no time in making a positive impression with Northern Ireland storming to a 4-0 victory at Mourneview Park on Tuesday night.
The result ended a six-game winless run – a streak which contained five defeats – and provided potential momentum ahead of a reverse in Ta’ Qali this evening.
A second consecutive win over Malta would put Northern Ireland in prime position to seal a World Cup qualification play-off berth as McArdle’s side look to book their spot at the major tournament in Brazil next year.
As an attacking player, Burnley ace Maxwell has enjoyed working under McArdle and is hoping it’s only a sign of things to come for Northern Ireland.
"It's been very positive as you can tell the confidence we've been given to go forward, we can express ourselves a bit and it's been really good," Maxwell told BBC Sport NI. "Before the game we were told to be brave and aggressive in the press and I think that really paid off….we played really well.
"I think it gives us a stepping stone.
"We have to go away which will be tough.
"But I think we're going to go in with the same mentality and be brave and confident going forward."