Football: Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland put up the shutters for the second Euro 2004 qualifier in a row to earn a goalless draw in Donetsk.

They frustrated Ukraine just as they had done previously against Spain to pick up only their second point in group six.

The visitors rode their luck in the first half of this European Championship qualifier with a shot from Andriy Voronin coming back off the post.

Birmingham goalkeeper Maik Taylor also made a string of fine saves to deny the hosts, but at the other end, the Irish still could not find the net - making it more than 1,000 minutes of football since their last goal.

Northern Ireland drew a blank again on Wednesday night, condemning the province to the wooden spoon in Euro 2004 qualifying group six.

A goal from sub Arman Karamian gave Armenia a narrow victory at Windsor Park.

He turned the ball home from close range in the 27th minute to settle a tense game.

Armenia goalkeeper Berezovski pulled off a stunning save on the hour to push away a header from Steve Jones after David Healy had delivered the cross, representing the home side's best chance.

Indeed Crewe midfielder Jones could have had a hat-trick on what was another frustrating night for Northern Ireland.

Manager Sammy McIlroy has now seen his side fail to score in 1152 minutes - and he could not believe it.