Hat-trick hero Healy is praised

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Northern Ireland's hat-trick hero David Healy has been hailed as a player who has "done wonders for his country".

Irish Football Association chief executive Howard Wells was speaking after the striker's goal treble sank Spain 3-2 at Belfast's Windsor Park.

"He has set standards that would be the envy of everyone," Mr Wells said. "His record in 52 internationals (23 goals) speaks for itself."

Northern Ireland twice came from behind to win the Euro 2008 qualifier.

Healy punished a Xabi Alonso mistake to level from close range shortly after Barcelona star Xavi had volleyed Spain ahead with 14 minutes gone.

David Villa restored Spain's lead on 52 minutes but Healy converted Sammy Clingan's free-kick to level.

Healy then ensured the home win with a glorious lobbed winner on 80 minutes.

The final whistle sparked off scenes of wild jubilation as the home crowd savoured a fine victory just days after the miserable 3-0 home defeat to Iceland.

Mr Wells also praised manager Lawrie Sanchez who had come in for come criticism after Saturday's defeat.

"Lawrie's shown great leadership skills against some of the bestmanagers in the world," he said.

The Northern Ireland boss had reacted to Saturday's dismal home defeat by making four changes with Michael Duff and debutant Jonny Evans coming into the defence and Kyle Lafferty and Roy Carroll also earning starts.

Steve Davis battles for possession with Spain's Antonio Lopez

Ulster Unionist deputy leader Danny Kennedy was among those at Windsor Park on Wednesday night. He described the atmosphere as similar to last year's victory over England.

"It's a year to the day since we beat England and now here we are again world beaters.

"The goals were fantastic and the fans were incredible. Yesterday Northern Ireland Football Supporters were officially crowned the Best Supporters in Europe, last night showed why they deserved it.''

Democratic Unionist MEP Jim Allister congratulated the team during a late night European Parliament debate in Strasbourg on fisheries.

Having congratulated a Spanish rapporteur for her report, he then commiserated with her on the defeat of "the mighty Spain" by "my small country of Northern Ireland".