Northern Ireland were held to a goalless draw by Georgia in their UEFA Nations League, League B, Group 2 encounter at Windsor Park on Sunday.
The hosts had the better chances throughout the game despite Georgia enjoying more possession, but they were unable to find a way past goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Northern Ireland dominated the attacking statistics, recording 15 shots to Georgia’s seven, with five of their efforts on target.
They also had 40 touches in the visitors’ penalty area compared to Georgia’s 17.
The hosts came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 84th minute when they were awarded a penalty.
Isaac Price stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Mamardashvili produced an important save to preserve Georgia’s clean sheet.
Northern Ireland had earlier seen a possible penalty for Ruairi McConville overturned following a VAR review, while Josh Magennis also missed a late opportunity as the hosts continued to search for a winner.
Georgia, who had 62 per cent possession and completed 542 passes, relied heavily on their defence as Northern Ireland applied pressure.
The visitors made 46 clearances during the match, compared with 20 by the hosts.
Mamardashvili was the standout performer for Georgia, making five saves, all from efforts inside the box, including the decisive penalty stop.
His performance helped the visitors secure a point despite Northern Ireland creating the clearer chances.
Northern Ireland won 63 per cent of their duels and had eight corners to Georgia’s four, but their failure to convert their opportunities ultimately cost them victory.
The result leaves both sides with a point from the encounter, after a match in which Northern Ireland dominated the chances while Georgia’s defensive resilience kept the score level.
