NI debut 'something I thought had passed' - Elmore

What the report says

Kess Elmore made her long-awaited Northern Ireland debut in the women’s World Cup play-off defeat by Portugal, coming on at half-time in a 4-0 loss at Inver Park in Larne. BBC Sport Football reported that the result left Northern Ireland’s qualification hopes in serious doubt, but Elmore’s introduction offered a positive individual moment on an otherwise difficult night.

Elmore, who previously represented England at youth level up to U20, said she had not expected a call-up and had assumed her chance to play for Northern Ireland might have passed after taking part in an NI training camp in 2021. She described her debut as a chance to bring energy and work for the team, and said she was pleased that the second half was better for Northern Ireland after Portugal dominated the opening period.

The report said Elmore usually plays on the wing or in midfield for Sparta Prague, where she has also gained experience in major European club competitions this season. In this match, she was used as a lone striker, a role she said was unfamiliar but one she was happy to accept if it helped the team.

Northern Ireland manager Tanya Oxtoby said Elmore could add attacking options and depth to a young squad. The article also noted that she was one of three players to earn a first cap against Portugal, underlining the manager’s effort to broaden the group ahead of the return leg in Portimao.