General Secretary David Bowen wrote an article in the match programme, urging fans to put an end to sectarian language in songs.

Screens at the ground promoted the message

Community relations officer for the IFA Michael Boyd said better cross-community relations would lead to a greater support base for Northern Ireland.

"There's always been a good strong support from both sides of the community.

"But there have been certain elements of the crowd that have maybe sung sectarian songs that have discriminated against one side of the community and turned them off coming.

"So what we want to do is to win back that support and also win back support from women and ethnic minorities."

'Remember hard-core fans'

On Tuesday the Amalgamation of the official Northern Ireland supporters club met with the IFA to discuss the issue.

Spokesman Gary Hancock said: "We in the amalgamation are hoping we can add our voice to it."

But he said core supporters should not be alienated.

"You can't forget the die-hard supporters who have always followed Northern Ireland.

"Everyone will be welcome at Windsor Park, no matter what race, creed or colour.

"When it comes down to it, anyone coming into this ground should be here to support Northern Ireland or the team they're playing against."

But some sectarian chanting could be heard in the crowd during Wednesday's match.

The words "no surrender" were sung during the national anthem and the loyalist marching song, The Sash, was also heard.

Manager Sammy McIlroy's side had been looking for their third consecutive win on Wednesday night, but lost 1-0 to Hungary.