Hosts Azerbaijan ran out 3-1 winners after being a goal down at half-time, but the rising temperature took its toll on the Northern Ireland girls, with three players being treated for some time after suffering dehydration.

Goalkeeper Tiarna McKenna collapsed on the way out for the second-half and after being replaced by Kirsty Eddis she was still being treated an hour after the game. Roisin Havelin and Noleen Douglas also required medical treatment.

The Northern Ireland team started well and were on top during the first-half.

Deborah McCarthy had opened the scoring for Alfie Wylie's team with just four minutes on the clock and both she and Havelin had further chances to add to the scoring as they forced the home goalkeeper into some fine saves.

The home side scored three times in the second-half to get their first win in the group to leave the Northern Ireland girls in bottom spot after three defeats.

/www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/