NORTHERN IRELAND made a low key start to their World Cup build up at a subdued Windsor Park last night. Just over 5,000 spectators watched in near silence as the Irish failed to lift their game, losing 2-0 to a more positive and inventive Norwegian side.

The expectations of the fans, after a dazzling five goal show against Austria when they last played at the venue, were not matched by an insipid and lacklustre performance.

They only sprang to life after the more mobile Norwegians took the lead in the 1st minute, with a goal from Solskjaer. The left winger needed a deflection from central defender Alan McDonald to help his shot into the net, but the goal was no more than the Norwegians deserved.

The second half introduction of Tottenham forward Gerard McMahon perked up the some what pedestrian Irish. McMahon had the ball in the net minutes after his arrival, but the effort was ruled out because of the challenge of West Ham's Ian Dowie on goalkeeper Eric Thorstvedt. It was not a night Dowie will wish to remember. He was sent off in the 85th minute after an elbowing incident.

At that stage, Norway had scored their second goal. It came from substitute Ostenstad, who drilled his shot into the corner from a right wing cross.

Northern Ireland manager Bryan Hamilton played down the defeat. "We didn't play as well as we might," he said. "We created chances, but they just didn't come off. Defensively we appeared sound, but perhaps we played a little too deep at times. It was in midfield, however, that we left ourselves open. It is an area we must win in future. Overall, too, we lacked attacking flair."