Nigel Worthington was happy with the attitude of the NI players

The result, which follows the 1-0 loss to Latvia, leaves N Ireland's hopes of making the finals hanging by a thread.

"The performance was superb and I'm delighted with the team's response from Saturday's defeat," said Worthington.

"We just didn't put the ball away but you have to look forward and we'll keep on fighting to qualify."

Interview: Northern Ireland boss Nigel Wothington

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He added: "On a better night we would have won the game easily.

"We've hit the crossbar, knocked it straight into the keeper's hands and missed an open goal - it was just one of those nights.

"The players went out and showed what they can do, closed Iceland down, passed well and created chances.

"All the cynics will say it's over but we'll keep believing and there's another tough game coming up against Sweden."

Keith Gillespie netted the 89th minute own goal which cost N Ireland a point but, like Worthington, he was remaining positive.

"I sprinted back to try and clear the danger but I stuck my foot out and it went in," said the Sheffield United winger.

"It's unfortunate for everyone because we played so well and it's been a long time since I've played in a more one-sided game.

"At 1-1 I thought there was only going to be one winner so it's desperately bad luck to concede a late goal and it being an own goal.

"We'll bounce back because there are so many positives to come out of this game.

"We're not out of it until mathematically we can't qualify and if we play like that we have a chance."