Michael McArdle's debut as Northern Ireland manager couldn't have gone much better. His side emphatically ended a six-match winless run with a commanding 4-0 victory over Malta in a Women's World Cup qualifier at Mourneview Park, making him the first manager in five to win his opening match.

The home side set the tone early, breaking a 432-minute goal drought within the first five minutes. Keri Halliday, ending her own four-game dry spell, saw a close-range shot take a deflection and nestle in the bottom corner. The relief was palpable, and the momentum was firmly with NI.

Halliday turned provider just over ten minutes later, delivering a perfect cross for Joely Andrews to head home and double the advantage. Malta struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined Northern Irish defense, with Rebecca Holloway making a crucial block to deny Maria Farrugia before halftime.

Any hopes of a Maltese comeback were quickly extinguished after the break. Halliday secured her brace in the 52nd minute with a low strike that goalkeeper Giulia D'Antuono couldn't keep out. While Malta's Haley Bugeja was denied by the woodwork thanks to a superb save from Jackie Burns, Northern Ireland's response was immediate.

Just past the hour mark, a perfectly timed pass from Megan Bell found Danielle Maxwell, who calmly lobbed the advancing keeper to make it four. The comprehensive win was sealed, allowing McArdle to make several late changes, including handing Cora Chambers her international debut.

This dominant performance provides a massive boost of confidence for Northern Ireland, offering the perfect foundation for Michael McArdle's new era. The team showcased attacking flair and defensive solidity, signaling a promising start to their World Cup qualifying campaign.