Michael McArdle's era as Northern Ireland manager couldn't have asked for a better start. In his debut match, his side delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Malta in a Women's World Cup qualifier at Mourneview Park, emphatically ending a frustrating six-match winless run.

The home side set the tone early, breaking a four-game goal drought within the first five minutes. Keri Halliday, whose close-range shot took a deflection, found the bottom corner to ignite the crowd and settle any nerves. The momentum was firmly with Northern Ireland, and it showed.

Halliday turned provider just over ten minutes later, delivering a cross that was powerfully headed home by Joely Andrews to double the advantage. Malta struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined defense, with Rebecca Holloway making a crucial block to deny Maria Farrugia before halftime.

Emerging from the break with the same intensity, Northern Ireland put the result beyond doubt. Halliday secured her brace in the 52nd minute with a low strike that the busy Malta keeper, Giulia D'Antuono, couldn't keep out. The fourth goal was a moment of quality, as Megan Bell's perfectly timed pass found Danielle Maxwell, who calmly lobbed the advancing goalkeeper on the hour mark.

While Malta's Haley Bugeja forced a superb save from Jackie Burns onto the woodwork, it was a rare moment of concern on a night dominated by the hosts. The comprehensive win makes McArdle the first of Northern Ireland's last five managers to win their opening match, a promising foundation upon which to build their World Cup qualifying campaign. After a 432-minute wait, the goals—and the winning feeling—are finally back.