Nominally at left-back he proved Gareth Bale's Madden Mobile Coins toughest opponent and followed the forward diligently when he dropped into pockets of space. Firm in the tackle, sound of distribution and assured in the air.MOMENT OF THE MATCH: In a game full of commitment and shot through with nerves, the deciding goal will always linger.
That it was an own goal will hardly bother Wales at all. Bale provided the telling fragment of class to drive into space and whip a wonderful ball into the middle. Had it been the waiting Hal Robson-Kanu who prodded home rather than the unfortunate Gareth McAuley it would have been even better.VIEW FROM THE BENCH
Chris Coleman continues to gain great credit. At times in the first hour his team seemed guilty of nerves but he remained calm and his decision to deploy a central striker in front of Bale proved crucial in the end. His substitutions were attacking, transmitting to his players that the push for victory took precedence over holding on. Michael O'Neill can be delighted with the way his team played despite the result.
Their efforts in patrolling Bale could hardly be faulted, and they Buy Madden Coins pushed forward more than many expected them to. A recall for Kyle Lafferty was well-earned, with the striker looking hungry and focused after two games on the bench.MOAN OF THE MATCH: At 36-years-old there is every chance McAuley will be retiring from international football in the coming days or weeks.